Premier: Lack of clear direction on UPSR confusing, consistent exam system needed

KUCHING (Jan 14): The constant back-and-forth over the currently abolished Ujian Pencapaian Sekolah Rendah (UPSR) is leaving students, teachers, and parents confused, said the Premier.

During a townhall session here on Tuesday night, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg gave his take on the Ministry of Education’s recent announcement that it would study the possibility of reintroducing UPSR for Primary 6 pupils, as well as the Form 3 Assessment (PT3).

“First it was abolished, now it’s back. There seems to be no clear direction.

“It’s confusing for teachers, and students are confused too,” he said.

Abang Johari noted Sarawak has developed its own system to reduce such disruptions through its dual language programme for Mathematics and Science, which includes exams for the two subjects as well as English conducted in collaboration with Cambridge University Press and Assessment.

He opined that the lack of a consistent examination system in the country has affected students’ ability to master basic skills.

“Students move from Primary 6 to Form 1, Form 2, Form 3, and up to Form 6, where passing or failing don’t matter, and when they enter the workforce, many struggle with writing,” he said.

Recalling his own experience, he shared that sitting for his Common Entrance Examination in Primary 6 – which determined entry into Form 1 – helped him understand whether he had learned the material.

“Exams don’t have to be about passing. At least you know whether students grasp what they’re taught,” he said.

He called for more consistent education policies, warning that frequent changes only create confusion for all parties.

Last week, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the ministry has activated the National Education Advisory Council to study the need to revive the UPSR and PT3.

She said the council’s study findings would be presented to the Cabinet before any further decisions are made.