KUCHING: Sarawak’s proposed assessment system for Year Six pupils will not conflict with the federal education policy, according to Datuk Seri Roland Sagah.
The state Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister stated that the assessment process would be carried out in consultation with the state Education Department.
“This is a means for us to enhance the education system in our state. It can be seen as an administrative matter,” Sagah told reporters in Kuching on Thursday (Nov 2).
He added, “Naturally, we want the best for our people. If we undertake this, it will be at our own expense.”
Sagah also emphasized that various assessment tests were already conducted for admission into Mara Junior Science Colleges (MRSM), science secondary schools, and the state-owned Yayasan Sarawak international secondary school.
“Therefore, having our own assessment for Year Six is not inappropriate,” he said.
“We have successfully conducted assessments for our international school with no objections from the Federal Government. We are not competing with them but providing complementary measures using our own resources,” he further elaborated.
Sagah revealed that his ministry is collaborating with educational experts to create the assessment system and will also seek feedback from parents.
He clarified that the assessment is intended to guide students in determining their future based on their abilities and interests, rather than burdening them.
“This is crucial for Sarawak’s development, particularly in light of our commitment to a green economy,” he explained.
Earlier this week, Sagah announced that Sarawak plans to establish its own Year Six assessment system since the Education Ministry opted not to restore the Ujian Pencapaian Sekolah Rendah (UPSR).
He highlighted the need to evaluate students’ performance, specifically regarding their eligibility for the Arts or Science streams in secondary school.
