SHAH ALAM, Aug 2 — The federal government’s proposal to make preschool compulsory for children aged five and above is a timely one, said a parents’ group.
However, Parent Action Group for Education Malaysia chair Datin Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim cautioned against rigid schedules, and urged shorter, age-appropriate sessions, especially in rural areas.
“Preschoolers should not be expected to handle overly long or rigid schedules. Shorter, developmentally appropriate sessions are advisable.
“Rural or underserved areas might need flexible hours or blended schedules to accommodate travel, parental work patterns, or catchment challenges,” she told Media Selangor.
While tabling the 13th Malaysia Plan on Thursday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the proposal, aimed at enhancing the country’s education system.
While welcoming the government’s decision, Noor Azimah said there must be concrete measures to ensure the quality of and equitable access to all preschools.
She said mandatory preschool provides early exposure to foundational literacy and numeracy.
“In terms of socio‑emotional and social development, structured preschool environments help children build routines, peer interaction skills, emotional regulation, and confidence,” she said.
Noor Azimah added that compulsory preschool could help close learning gaps and reduce disparities among children from different backgrounds.
She also called for all preschoolers to be taught science and mathematics in English to build a solid foundation in understanding global scientific concepts as they progress through the education system.
“The once-mandatory non-DLP (dual-language programme) restriction imposed in 2024 needs serious review as it stifles growth and is repressive and regressive. Allow schools to appeal (such moves) as students approach upper primary and secondary levels,” she said.
In the announcement on Thursday, Anwar said Putrajaya is considering reviewing school hours, following calls from several quarters to start classes later than the current 7.30am.
On the proposed extension of school hours, Noor Azimah said learning sessions should be supplemented with performing arts or skill-based activities, such as dance, drama, music, culture, culinary arts, carpentry, and sports.
