KGBS urges stakeholder engagement before decision on PT3, UPSR

KUCHING (Jan 10): The Sarawak Bumiputera Teachers’ Union (KGBS) has urged the Education Ministry (MoE) to prioritise meaningful engagement with stakeholders before making any decision on the possible reinstatement of the Pentaksiran Tingkatan Tiga (PT3) and the Ujian Pencapaian Sekolah Rendah (UPSR).

In a statement, KGBS president Zulkiflee Sebli said the union welcomed the ministry’s move to review the need for national examinations through the National Education Advisory Council, describing it as a positive sign of openness in reassessing education policies in line with current needs.

“KGBS supports the government’s willingness to review existing assessment policies by considering feedback from various quarters, including parents and the wider community,” he said.

He stressed that the review process must be accompanied by inclusive and consultative sessions involving teachers’ union, school-based educators, parents and other relevant stakeholders.

According to Zulkiflee, the voices and lived experiences of teachers in the classroom must be central to shaping the future direction of the country’s assessment framework.

He cautioned that assessment systems go far beyond academic measurement, as they directly affect teachers’ workload, students’ emotional well-being, and teaching and learning approaches in schools.

“As such, the review must holistically examine both short-term and long-term implications, including school readiness, teacher training, student welfare and alignment with the aspiration for holistic education,” he said.

Zulkiflee also warned against a return to excessive examination-oriented practices should PT3 or UPSR be reintroduced.

“If the reinstatement of PT3 or UPSR is being considered, implementation mechanisms must be more balanced, fair and school-friendly, rather than repeating past weaknesses,” he added.

Reaffirming the union’s commitment to constructive collaboration, he said KGBS stands ready to work with the MoE and all relevant parties to ensure education policies are firmly centred on students’ interests, teachers’ well-being and the overall quality of national education, particularly in Sarawak.