Kuala lumpur: Improving the quality of education must be a priority for all parties in efforts to make Malaysia a developed and more competitive nation, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. He stated that a country's progress is impossible without a strong educational foundation encompassing proficiency in language, mathematics, and science, as well as the ability to adapt to new technologies.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Prime Minister emphasized that the quality of education is the country's greatest challenge. He noted that if Malaysia wants to elevate its standing and progress, the quality of education must be improved. Language proficiency in Malay, English, Chinese, or Tamil should be well mastered. An understanding of mathematics and science, particularly in artificial intelligence and new technology, is essential. These should be the nation's goals, he said during the launch of the Semenyih Public Infrastructure Development.
In attendance were Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, and Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari. Anwar highlighted that the government is taking steps to implement voluntary admission of pupils into Year One at the age of six beginning next year. This initiative aims to ensure children do not fall behind in the education system.
The Prime Minister pointed out that more than 100 countries have already begun formal schooling at that age, and Malaysia cannot afford to lag in its efforts to develop human capital potential. Anwar called on all parties, including village heads and members of the Village Development and Security Committee (JKKK), to advise parents in their respective areas to seize the opportunity under the new policy.
He expressed a desire to make the policy mandatory but acknowledged the Education Ministry's recommendation for patience. Anwar urged that no child should be left behind and encouraged parents to register their children for Year One at the age of six. Addressing the challenge of providing an additional allocation of about RM800 million to implement the policy, he reiterated the government's commitment to seeking solutions for effective execution.
As Finance Minister, Anwar explained that the allocation is needed to cover the recruitment of new teachers, payment of emoluments, provision of additional classrooms, and improvements to basic school facilities. He clarified that the effort to secure the allocation is not aimed at excessive spending but is an important investment to ensure every child has access to quality education.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of allocating funds for children and teachers, with nearly RM1 billion required. He assured that the government will find a way to ensure children benefit from good education in the country, urging parents to cooperate and provide encouragement.
On January 20, the Prime Minister announced during the launch of the National Education Blueprint (RPN) 2026-2035 that beginning next year, six-year-old children may enter Year One. However, this will not be compulsory and will depend on parents' decisions.