GEORGE TOWN, February 19 — The Ministry of Education Malaysia will continue engagement sessions with private kindergarten and preschool operators as well as parents to clarify concerns over the enrolment of six-year-olds into Year One, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said.
Speaking after attending a Chinese New Year event at Wisma PKR, she stressed that the ministry is open to feedback and prepared to hold further discussions if there are parties dissatisfied with aspects of the policy, adding that issues raised during engagements are taken seriously.
Fadhlina clarified that entry into Year One at age six under the new curriculum, expected to be implemented from 2027, is optional and not mandatory. Parents who believe their children are ready may proceed, while others may allow them to remain in preschool.
Including at government facilities which will continue accepting six-year-olds. Her remarks follow criticism from opposition figures and preschool operators who cautioned against interpreting attendance at ministry briefings as endorsement of the policy.
