Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Education (MOE) will focus on character building and human values in the upcoming Education Development Plan 2026-2035, announced Education Director-General Dr. Mohd Azam Ahmad. This initiative aligns with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s call to enhance moral and ethical values among students.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the plan is currently being drafted and will emphasize human-centred education, highlighting ‘karamah insaniah’ (recognition of human dignity) as the cornerstone of the national education system. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek underscored the significance of ‘karamah insaniah’-an educational approach that elevates human dignity through values like manners, morality, and integrity.

Earlier, Prime Minister Anwar pointed out flaws in the country’s education system, which historically focused more on academic knowledge rather than instilling principles, ethics, and moral values in students. He expressed hope for a collective resolve among educational institutions, parents, and society to address these shortcomings, aiming to nurture a generation that is not only knowledgeable but also virtuous.

Mohd Azam noted that the Prime Minister’s remarks were positively received and motivated the ministry to reform the national education system. The 10-year Education Development Plan 2026-2035 is set to replace the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025, which concludes this year.

Previously, Fadhlina mentioned that the new plan would focus on reforms aimed at enhancing the quality, accessibility, and relevance of education for students across the nation.