Dr Annuar: Survey needed to identify issues in schools unable to implement HIP

KUCHING (July 12): A survey will be conducted to identify issues and shortcomings in schools unable to adequately implement the Highly Immersive Programme (HIP), said Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee.

The Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development emphasised HIP’s critical role in creating an English-rich environment for students.

He acknowledged the need for better implementation and proposed a comprehensive workshop to address these shortcomings, particularly in rural schools.

“We have developed a very good comprehensive programme, but now the question is implementation. This involves school heads, teachers, students and supporters, including the community and parents.

“Unless all these four stakeholders work together, the HIP programme will not succeed,” he said.

Dr Annuar mentioned discussions with the director and deputy director of the Sarawak Education Department on the necessity of a comprehensive workshop.

He also expressed his intention to propose to the state government that HIP Sarawak be made extraordinary compared to the rest of HIP in Malaysia.

“Sarawak places a strong emphasis on English. While we are proud to be ahead, we must maintain and improve our standards through a comprehensive programme.

“I can assure you efforts are underway to implement this programme soon.  But before that, I suggested we conduct a survey to address the issues and shortcomings in schools unable to implement HIP adequately.

“This would ensure that during the workshop, we can focus on addressing the specific challenges faced by teachers, especially those in rural schools,” he said in his speech at the closing ceremony of the Sarawak English Language Education Symposium (Seles) at Raia Hotel here today.

On Seles, Dr Annuar expressed his hope that participants gained valuable exposure and knowledge from the speakers.

He highlighted the increasing emphasis on artificial intelligence and the necessity of adopting new technologies to ensure the successful implementation of education programmes.

“I’m sure the benefit from this programme will be extended to all your colleagues who are not here, so the environment among teachers, particularly in the Southern Zone of Sarawak, and later in the Central Zone and Northern Zone, will become very conducive.

“This will help prepare for the future implementation of HIP Sarawak in the near future,” he added.