Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Childcare Centre Association (PPJKKM) has proposed that the government introduce a start-up grant for newly registered childcare centres (PJKK) under the 2027 Budget. Association founder and chairman Simon Ng said the proposal aims to help new childcare centre operators reduce initial costs while supporting the development of a more organised and professional registered childcare industry.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Simon Ng highlighted the various expenses new operators face during the initial stages, including premises renovations, installation of fire safety equipment, learning facilities, as well as registration and administrative costs. He emphasized that these financial burdens could be alleviated if the government provides a start-up grant, which would lower the barriers to establishing registered childcare centres.

Ng further explained that increasing the number of registered childcare centres would offer parents more options for quality after-school care services, thereby easing childcare responsibilities and reducing financial pressure on families, particularly those in the middle-income (M40) group. He noted that such an initiative would enhance safety standards and the quality of the learning environment, thereby strengthening parental confidence in these registered facilities.

Simon also urged the government to include the registered childcare industry as part of the education and family development support ecosystem in the 2027 Budget. This inclusion would enable the sector's growth through more comprehensive and targeted policies. He mentioned that the proposed grant would support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the education services sector and help ease the financial burden on families.

Ng concluded by stating that this proposal represents a long-term investment benefiting children, families, and the community, and it deserves positive consideration by the government.