Malaysia has been making strides in expanding its preschool education system over the past decade, recognizing the pivotal role it plays in shaping a child’s future. However, despite significant progress, the country faces challenges in ensuring equitable access and high-quality education for all young learners.
The World Bank’s latest report, “Shaping First Steps: A Comprehensive Review of Preschool Education in Malaysia,” delves into the current state of the country’s preschool system and presents 35 recommendations to enhance accessibility, equity, and quality.
Closing the Enrollment Gap
One of the major issues highlighted in the report is the failure to achieve the target of universal preschool enrollment by 2020. To address this, the government is urged to take concrete steps, including making one year of universal preprimary education free and compulsory for all Malaysian children. Countries that have adopted such policies witnessed higher enrollment ratios and improved indicators.
Additionally, the report suggests conducting a thorough mapping exercise to identify areas with high demand for preschool seats and implementing fast-track programs and mobile classrooms to reach out to unenrolled children. Furthermore, financial aid to parents and preschool operators can play a vital role in increasing enrollment, with recommendations to reintroduce fee assistance for parents and provide supply-side incentives for operators.
Quality Teachers for Quality Education
Ensuring well-qualified teachers is vital for enhancing the quality of preschool education. The report emphasizes the need for a clear policy that all preschool teachers must obtain a minimum diploma in early childhood education (ECCE) by 2025. To achieve this, affordable and accessible diploma programs should be offered, along with alternative pathways for in-service teachers to upgrade their qualifications.
Professional development for teachers and school leaders is another crucial aspect, with the recommendation for more accessible and affordable training opportunities. Strengthening local peer learning networks and introducing continuous professional development policies for private preschool teachers can further bolster the quality of education.
Governance and Financing: Key Enablers
Effective governance and strong financing are essential for implementing the recommended measures successfully. The report presents three options to streamline ECCE governance, including establishing a formal coordinating agency or transferring management to a single ministry. A committed effort from all levels of government and stakeholders is crucial in harmonizing oversight, regulation, licensing, and policy development.
Moreover, a collaborative approach among stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector, NGOs, universities, and ECCE experts, is emphasized for a more integrated and coherent preschool education sector. Leveraging the momentum generated by the report, the establishment of a taskforce comprising representatives from various preschool providers can help implement the recommendations and resolve long-standing issues.
A Brighter Future for All
The World Bank’s report on Malaysia’s preschool education system highlights both achievements and challenges in the journey towards providing quality early childhood education to every child. By implementing the recommended measures, the country can ensure equitable access to preschool education, enhance teacher qualifications and training, mitigate the impact of the pandemic, and strengthen governance and financing.
With a collaborative effort from all stakeholders, Malaysia can pave the way for a brighter future for its youngest citizens, empowering them with a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success. As the Ministry of Education embarks on the last wave of the Malaysia Education Blueprint, there is an unprecedented opportunity to accelerate the necessary reforms and transform preschool education for the better. By investing in its children’s early years, Malaysia can build a stronger, more prosperous society for generations to come.
Note:
The content of this article is based on World Bank (2023) “Shaping First Steps: A Comprehensive Review of Preschool Education in Malaysia” (May), World Bank, Washington, DC.
