English Medium for S'wak Tech Subjects

The Sarawak state government has announced that by 2029 English will become the medium of instruction for Computer Science and Design subjects in secondary schools. The Education Ministry is already moving forward with the plan, focusing on curriculum redesign, resource allocation and, crucially, upskilling teachers to deliver lessons in English. Officials say the shift will align Sarawak’s tech education with global standards, improve students’ employability and make the state more attractive to multinational tech firms. While the timeline gives schools a decade to adapt, the rollout will be phased, starting with pilot programmes in selected districts before a full‑state implementation.

This policy could reshape Sarawak’s education landscape, boosting tech talent pipelines and drawing investment, while requiring substantial teacher training and resource upgrades.

Switching to English positions Sarawak’s graduates to compete internationally, eases collaboration with global tech firms, and supports the state’s ambition to become a digital hub. It also signals a broader push towards modernising education, but hinges on effective teacher training and adequate funding to avoid widening gaps.