The National Philosophy from the Point of View (weltaunchauung) of the Penan Community

Abstract

This concept paper aims to look at the meaning of education from the perspective of the Penan community (weltaunchauung). The Penan community is a minority community living in rural Sarawak. They were originally nomadic. As a result, Penan society is lagging behind in many aspects especially in the field of education. The government-backed resettlement did not show a favourable impact on Penan student enrolment in high school. At one time, the Penans were a separate community from other people because of their remote locations. The education they receive is informal education where they only learn the skills they need for survival. The emergence of formal education now gives the Penan community no choice but to join the National education agenda. The fallout has left them unable to compete with other economically disadvantaged communities. Therefore, this concept paper is designed to look at the philosophy of education according to the Penan society. Is there anything sceptical about education today from the Penan society? It is hoped that this concept paper will provide a clearer understanding of issues pertaining to Penan society.