Kuala lumpur: Children entering Year One early at the age of six (5+), starting from the 2027 session, are expected to complete upper secondary education at 16, according to the Ministry of Education (MOE).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the ministry’s Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document clarifies that these pupils will not remain in Year One for two years. Instead, they will follow the existing education structure of six years in primary school and five years in secondary school. The document, prepared by the MOE’s Education Policy Planning and Research Division, states that pupils will complete upper secondary education at the age of 16 (15+).

The MOE emphasized that early admission is a voluntary option for parents and is not compulsory. It depends entirely on the readiness of children who have attended preschool at the age of five and have passed the prescribed diagnostic screening. To ensure that learning quality is maintained, the MOE has developed the 2027 School Curriculum. This curriculum is tailored to pupils’ cognitive levels, including those who may not have attended preschool, allowing them to master basic skills effectively.

Regarding infrastructure preparedness, the ministry plans to construct additional classrooms using the Industrialised Building System (IBS) method to address pupils’ needs nationwide. The MOE is also committed to ensuring a sufficient supply of teachers through various training channels, such as the Bachelor of Education Programme (PISMP), the Postgraduate Diploma in Education Programme (PDPP), and appointments under the Contract of Service (COS).

The early entry policy is part of the national education system’s flexibility, providing opportunities for children who achieve academic readiness earlier to begin formal schooling before the usual age of seven.