BY RASHEEQA BAHIDA & NEVILLE TIMOTHY SANDERS
KUCHING: As conversations on multilingual education, technological readiness, and Malaysia’s long-term direction continue to grow, members of the public strongly believe that solid leadership and a unified education system are vital to securing the nation’s future.
For Khairunnisa Sabawi, 36, an administrative officer, strengthening the national education system should remain Malaysia’s top priority.
She believes the declining proficiency in Bahasa Malaysia among students requires immediate attention.
“Students’ proficiency in Malay is very low now. Bahasa Malaysia should continue to be prioritised in Malaysia,” she said.
Khairunnisa emphasised that unity begins with a common education framework that all Malaysians can stand behind.
“Malaysia should strengthen one national education system. Unity and fairness come from having common standards. I prefer improving our existing system rather than creating parallel pathways,” she added.
She said Malaysia can still achieve global competitiveness if national schools receive serious investment in English, STEM and high-quality teaching.
Khairunnisa also welcomed Sarawak’s leadership direction under the Premier, especially in technology-driven sectors.
“Sarawak is progressing alongside Peninsular Malaysia. Although its vast geography makes infrastructure challenging, forward-thinking leadership that focuses on technology is very important,” she said.
For Haziq Azhar, 32, a civil servant from Peninsular Malaysia who currently lives in Sarawak, multilingual and globally oriented education is the way forward.
He agreed that recognising diverse education pathways – such as the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) – can help youth thrive in a fast-moving, technology-driven world.
“Early exposure trains young people to think more openly and be competitive, in line with rapid technological development,” he said.
Haziq also expressed strong support for Sarawak’s progressive leadership under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
“Under Abang Johari’s leadership, we can see the quality of education given to Sarawak’s children. They are the ones who will advance Sarawak in the future,” he said.
He added that from his perspective as a Peninsular Malaysian living in Sarawak, the state’s commitment to progress is clearly visible.
“I can see the development and spirit of the Sarawakians – regardless of race or religion – working to advance their future in a more global and progressive direction,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kay Nurul Izzati Kamarudin, 34, a factory manager, shared similar views on the importance of diverse learning environments.
For her, Sarawak’s multilingual education approach is key to nurturing globally capable talent.
“Yes, exposure to multiple languages from school helps young people think more openly and prepares them to compete internationally,” she said.
She also agreed that leadership mindset plays a decisive role in shaping the future of any state or nation.
“Sarawak provides excellent education under Abang Johari. This approach offers a huge advantage to the younger generation,” she said.
On the idea of “Borneo for Malaysia”. Kay Nurul said Sarawak and Sabah are clearly demonstrating forward momentum.
“Sarawak and Sabah are leading Malaysia toward a more global and progressive future,” she added.
