By Damien Mikeng (English Course Coordinator, FELC)
Kota Samarahan, 14 November – S.K. Beliong came alive with energy and excitement as pupils, teachers, and community members gathered for the Highly Immersive Programme (HIP), a national initiative aimed at enriching English language exposure among primary school pupils. Held from 13 to 14 November, the two-day programme brought together children from S.K. Beliong and neighbouring S.K. Endap for a series of interactive, language-focused activities.
The event began with an official welcome by Mr. Mohd Hatta Abdul Wahab, Head of S.K. Beliong, who expressed pride in hosting the programme and emphasised the importance of English literacy in shaping confident, future-ready learners.
“We are delighted to see our pupils fully engaged in English through meaningful activities. HIP helps create a supportive environment where language learning becomes enjoyable,” he said during his opening address.
The ceremony was also attended by distinguished guests, teachers, and parents, including Mr. Thian Khian Niam, representative from the Samarahan District Education Office, and Mr. Damien Mikeng from the Faculty of Education, Language and Communication, UNIMAS.
Throughout the programme, pupils participated in a range of activities designed to promote confidence, teamwork, and active use of the English language. Highlights included Choral Speaking, Zumba, English Song Presentation and Language Workshop.Teachers facilitated the sessions with enthusiasm, while parents and community members supported the activities, reinforcing the collaborative spirit of HIP. The Highly Immersive Programme is a key initiative under the Ministry of Education Malaysia, focusing on increasing English language exposure through enjoyable, meaningful engagement. For rural schools like S.K. Beliong and S.K. Endap, HIP provides valuable opportunities for pupils to practise English in a supportive and fun environment.
With the success of this year’s programme, S.K. Beliong hopes to continue organising similar activities to empower its pupils and strengthen English language culture within the school community. The collaboration between educators, parents, and district representatives reflects a shared commitment to improving language education in Samarahan.