Comprehensive workshop to enhance HIP

KUCHING: Sarawak plans to organise a thorough workshop to improve the standards and implementation of the Education Department’s Highly Immersive Programme (HIP).

Deputy Minister for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, stated that the ministry will initially conduct a survey to identify the issues and shortcomings faced by schools struggling to implement HIP effectively.

“I have spoken with several officials, including the Director and Deputy Director of the Sarawak Education Department. We need to take action regarding HIP,” Dr Annuar said.

“We must create a favourable learning environment for students to enhance their English skills. During the workshop, we will focus on addressing the challenges faced by teachers, particularly those in rural schools.

“Maintaining and improving our standards requires a comprehensive approach, and I assure you that we will soon implement this program,” he added.

These remarks were made during his speech at the closing ceremony of the Sarawak English Language Education Symposium (SELES) held at Raia Hotel and Convention Centre in Kuching.

HIP is a program introduced under the Education Ministry’s ‘Upholding Bahasa Malaysia and Strengthening the English Language (MBMMBI)’ policy, aimed at enhancing English proficiency in schools by providing greater exposure to the language.

Dr Annuar further stated that he would propose to the state government to make HIP Sarawak stand out compared to other HIP programs in Malaysia.

“We need to take action regarding HIP. We have already developed a comprehensive programme, but now the crucial question is its implementation.

“The success of this program depends on the collaboration of all stakeholders, including school heads, teachers, students, and the community, including parents, working together to achieve the program’s objectives.

“Without the concerted efforts of these four groups, the HIP program will not succeed,” he said.

The closing ceremony was attended by MEITD Senior Officer Education Division, representing its permanent secretary Wes Mirid, Deputy Director of Sarawak Education Department Dr Les Met, and Regional Senior Director of National Geographic Learning Global Partnership Erik Gundersen.