The Bachelor of Education (Ethnic Languages) with Honours programme offered by the Faculty of Languages and Communication (FBK), Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) is one of the new academic programmes designed to empower and uphold ethnic languages and cultures in Malaysia. This programme aims to produce educators, researchers and language activists who are knowledgeable, have modern pedagogical skills, and play an active role in the preservation and development of local ethnic languages. Currently, the specialisations offered are Iban, Kadazandusun and Semai languages.

The programme’s curriculum combines aspects of linguistics, literature, intercultural communication, and the theory and practice of language education. Students will be exposed to effective ethnic language teaching methods, the development of learning materials, and the use of digital technology in minority language education. Through teaching practice and field research, students have the opportunity to explore the real context of the preservation of ethnic languages and cultures in Malaysia.

This programme also emphasises the development of soft skills such as effective communication, critical thinking, and intercultural awareness — in line with the national goal of strengthening unity and multi-racial identity.