Sarawak expands UP-DLP programme to strengthen STEM, English proficiency

KUCHING: Sarawak is pursuing its own approach to education through initiatives such as the Dual Language Programme Assessment Test (UP-DLP), aimed at strengthening students’ proficiency in English, Mathematics and Science.

Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee, said the state had adopted a different approach to education, with UP-DLP entering its second year of implementation.

“The assessment allowed Year Six pupils to demonstrate their mastery of the subjects through an examination with questions in two languages,” he said at the closing ceremony of the programme ‘Empowering Sarawak UP-DLP: Driving Excellence in STEM and English’ today.

Dr Annuar delivers his closing speech. Photo: Dayang Milliana

The initiative is complemented by the Year Four Learning Matrix Test (MPTT4), which helps identify pupils’ levels of understanding earlier and allows time for improvement before they sit for UP-DLP.

He stressed that Sarawak could not afford to wait for developments elsewhere, adding that the state needed to take its own initiatives to ensure its education sector continued to progress.

He also highlighted Sarawak’s Free Tertiary Education Scheme (FTES), which offers 64 courses at Sarawak-owned higher learning institutions, and encouraged students to consider local universities when pursuing their preferred fields.

The scheme, alongside other education initiatives, reflects the state’s efforts to widen access to higher education.

He also underscored the role of Yayasan Sarawak International School (YSIS) in narrowing the education gap between urban and rural communities.

The schools offer an international curriculum, including IGCSE, with free education for students from B40 households and subsidised fees for those from M40 households.

He said the state’s education efforts must ensure that children, regardless of their background or where they live, have opportunities to pursue quality education.

The programme was organised by the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (UKAS) and the SK Merpati Jepang Parents-Teachers Association (PIBG) at Wisma SABATI.

Dr Annuar (standing, fifth left) takes a group photo with the students and officers in attendance. Photo: Dayang Milliana