Parents key in early STEM education

SIBURAN: The Community Development Department (KEMAS) preschools play a crucial role in early childhood education, but with a twist, said Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn.

The Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development said that KEMAS preschools in Sarawak provide exposure to children through the dual language programme (DLP).

“The Sarawak DLP differs from the National DLP as Sarawak uses English for Science and Mathematics, while other subjects are still taught in Malay.

“Our emphasis is on Science and Mathematics; therefore, parents should begin exposing their children to English early. It is the responsibility of parents to nurture their children,” he said during the opening of the Puncak Borneo Parenting Workshop on Monday.

The workshop was attended by parents and guardians of students from 38 preschools and four nurseries in the Puncak Borneo area.

Sagah, who is also the Tarat assemblyman, added that early childhood education is primarily the responsibility of parents, with teachers playing a supportive role.

“We should also focus more on learning Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM).

“This should start at an early age so that the children develop a mindset more attuned to STEM learning,” he added.

Also present were Political Secretary to the Premier Damen Rejek, Kuching KEMAS division officer Hazlinah Samsir, Siburan district representative George Harisson, Kuching KEMAS district officer Nurezzati Azri, and Puncak Borneo KEMAS preschool supervisor Mary Anne Zainuddin.