By Siti Rohaizah Zainal
PETALING JAYA, June 26 — Twenty-six preschools here have been whitelisted thanks to a programme to register unlicensed operations, implemented in May.
Petaling Jaya Mayor Mohamad Zahri Samingon said the kindergartens have been allowed to operate after their planning and structure permits and business licences were approved.
“This one-stop programme was activated after an engagement session with preschool operators, in which they were given two weeks to complete their documents.
“Upon checking, 26 preschools were whitelisted after they completed their documentation, while 22 premises that have only obtained planning or structure permits must complete their documentation before December 31.
“Meanwhile, 16 premises that didn’t join the programme will be referred to the Selangor State Education Department and Petaling Utama District Education Office for enforcement action,” Zahri said during a Petaling Jaya City Council monthly meeting yesterday.
He added that preschool owners must abide by regulations so they may operate legally.
“Early childhood education is an important phase that shapes foundational intellectual, emotional, social and physical development. Providing a safe, conducive and quality learning environment is highly critical to design the future generation.
“In addition to ensuring children’s rights and welfare, this (whitelisting effort) contributes to (Petaling Jaya Smart, Sustainable and Resilient 2030) achievements and (the United Nations) Sustainable Development Goals of quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all,” Zahri said.
