Sagah urges early English proficiency to boost state’s growth

SERIAN: Minister for Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn has underscored the importance of nurturing proficiency in the English language among children from an early age.

In alignment with the Sarawak government’s vision to achieve developed state status by 2030, he stressed the need to equip children with the professional skills essential for the state’s development.

According to him, introducing children to English early in their education is crucial for excelling in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields, which will play a pivotal role in driving the state’s economy and development in the foreseeable future.

Encouraging parents to start teaching English to their children during their kindergarten years, he pointed out the significance of basic English conversations at home.

“Explain fundamental concepts, such as how fire generates heat or how electricity functions in homes, to foster children’s interest in science.

“It is essential to instil this in them; otherwise, outsiders will come to take the jobs here because we lack individuals who are qualified.”

Sagah made these remarks during the 2023 Appreciation Ceremony for Tabika and Taska KEMAS in Mambong and Tarat constituencies at the Serian Community Hall on Thursday (Jan 25).

As the Tarat assemblyman, he expressed his delight at the introduction of new programmes by the Department of Community Development (KEMAS), highlighting their potential to enhance the education of young children.

Emphasising the pivotal role of teachers in helping students adapt to English before entering primary school, he urged KEMAS teachers to engage in English conversations more frequently with their students.

He noted that the goal is to make Sarawak a developed state by 2030, and these efforts will prepare children for science learning and subsequent professional pursuits.

The event witnessed 357 children receiving certificates for completing their studies at KEMAS’ tabika and taska. Out of this total, 32 certificate recipients are from taska, while 325 children aged 5 and 6 will enter preschool and primary one for the 2024 session commencing in March.

Among those present were deputy director of Early Childhood Education Kemas Sarawak, Roselind Wilson Laing; and a political secretary to the Sarawak Premier, Damien Rejek.