KUALA LUMPUR: The Dual Language Programme (DLP) is beneficial because it caters to the needs of all pupils in Malaysian schools.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Faculty of Education lecturer Associate Professor Dr Hasnah Toran said it is also important for all schools to adhere to the DLP policy because the decision to put it into practice was a result of thorough research.
"Having options (in mediuam) is good. Different individuals have different challenges and needs.
"Individuals who are proficient in multiple languages, or at least bilingual, are recognised to have an advantage on the international stage," she told the New Straits Times.
Hasnah emphasised the importance of adhering to the guidelines set forth by the Education Ministry.
She said there was a rigorous process involved in establishing such guidelines, including thorough discussions, debates and approvals made at the highest levels.
"If these guidelines are not followed, it defeats the purpose of having an Education Ministry.
"Language in a multicultural nation like Malaysia plays an integral role in shaping national identity and development.
"Those opposing the use of Bahasa Melayu in education don't understand children's cognitive abilities to master multiple languages."
Clause 12.2.8 of the DLP guidelines requires that Year One and Form One classes have one non-DLP class teaching Mathematics and Science in Bahasa Melayu, regardless of parental preference.
Recently, Parent Action Group for Education Malaysia chairman Datin Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim was reported to have said that certain elite schools were exempt from the new DLP rule.
Earlier today, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said all schools are bound by the DLP ruling.
Hasnah also said that the issue shortage in the number of teachers was unrelated to the DLP issue.
"This shortage is a nationwide concern that needs addressing. But that is a separate issue.
"Challenges (for implementation) will always arise. But our teachers are all well-trained. We just need to develop a support system for them to shine," she said.