Malaysia to Host the 2026 World Forum on Early Care and Education
by on 12/01/2026 ...
Kuala Lumpur will become the melting pot for the world’s most passionate champions for children. From 14 – 17 April 2026, Hilton Kuala Lumpur will shine with energy, colour, and purpose as educators, advocates, policymakers, and visionaries from more than 40 countries unite for the World Forum on Early Care and Education.
Carrying the theme, “Feeling Joy, Facing Challenges: Listening to Voices that Lead Us to Connection and Action,” the event promises four transformative days of listening, learning, and collaboration, centre on one shared goal: building a better future for every child.
“When people dedicated to young children connect across cultures, meaningful and lasting change can happen,” said Anne Sivanathan, Secretary of World Forum Foundation.
A Global Community for Early Childhood
Founded in 1999, the World Forum Foundation mission is to connect, inform, and inspire those who support young children worldwide. Its work is guided by five core values; Children, Change, Relationships, Spirit, and Differences. These principles remind us that every child, regardless of their background, deserves to grow in a world filled with opportunity, respect, and love.
The World Forum is a living, breathing community that thrives on relationships, cultural exchange, and shared leadership. It’s a global dialogue where educators and caregivers share real stories, reflect on experiences, and build lifelong connections that continue to shape classrooms and communities long after the event ends.
Malaysia, a Meaningful Homecoming
Kuala Lumpur first hosted the World Forum in 2007, a milestone that inspired many in the region. Nearly two decades later, the Forum returns as a meaningful homecoming. Malaysia is selected as the hosting nation because it aligns beautifully with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, a celebration of the nation’s diversity and natural beauty, the perfect backdrop for a global gathering focused on children, families, and community.
The decision also honours Malaysia’s ongoing contributions to early childhood development. In 2023, Malaysia’s Inclusive Outdoor Classroom (IOC) hosted the World Forum Study Tour, showcasing strengths in inclusive education, nature-based learning, and family-centred practice. The 2026 Forum continues this legacy, supported by the Selangor State Government, Majlis Perwakilan Penduduk Zone 16, and the Association of the Inclusive Outdoor Classroom. Anne, who is also the Association’s president and the Local Team Chair for World Forum 2026, proudly says “With passionate champions, cultural diversity, and a deep dedication to young children, Malaysia offers a powerful and inspiring home for this global gathering.”
As one of the strategic partners of World Forum 2026, Kiddy123 is proud to play a meaningful role in supporting this global event. For over a decade, Kiddy123 has championed high-quality early childhood education in Malaysia, connecting families, educators, and preschools nationwide. Through this landmark gathering, Kiddy123 continues its commitment to elevating Malaysia’s early childhood landscape and ensuring that local voices, innovations, and success stories are represented on the world stage.
Four Days of Listening and Action
At the heart of the World Forum 2026 lies a unique structure; four days of listening that reflect the rhythm of understanding and transformation.
Day 1:
Listening to Elders – connecting with our roots
Day 2:
Listening to Today’s World – facing modern challenges
Day 3:
Listening to Children – feeling joy and responsibility
Day 4:
Listening to the World Forum Community – building strength for action
Throughout these days, participants will explore themes such as inclusion and disability, wellbeing, sustainability, family engagement, diversity, play, leadership, children’s rights, policy, and even technology and A.I. in education. It’s an experience that encourages reflection, empathy, and renewal for hearts as much as for minds.
Voices from Around the World
What makes the World Forum extraordinary is its inclusivity which reflects every layer of society. Delegates will include educators, policymakers, Indigenous leaders, disability advocates, youth, and parents. The belief is simple yet profound: every voice matters.
“From village-based caregivers to international thought leaders, everyone contributes to shaping a stronger future for children.” added Anne.
Participants will attend sessions along with experiencing Malaysia through cultural exchanges, community visits, and meaningful interactions that celebrate the spirit of connection.
What It Means for Malaysia and the Region
Hosting this global event shines a spotlight on Malaysia’s leadership in early childhood education. It’s an opportunity to showcase our innovative preschools, inclusive teaching practices, and community-rooted learning to the world.
For Malaysian educators and policymakers, the Forum opens doors to international collaboration, mentorship, and professional growth. Exposure to global research and real-world practices will help shape stronger preschools and teacher training across the nation.
Parents and families will also benefit, as educators return with new insights and culturally grounded approaches that enhance classroom learning and child wellbeing.
A Global Legacy with Local Impact
Beyond the four inspiring days, the World Forum 2026 aims to create a lasting legacy that fosters innovation, empathy, and equity. It will inspire educators to transform what they’ve learned into local action, building systems that place children and families at the centre.
Malaysia’s involvement will ripple through the global early childhood network, signalling that our nation is ready to lead, listen, and contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive world.
Get Involved: Be Part of the Movement
Everyone who cares about young children – educators, NGOs, parents, students, and community advocates, including you! – is invited to be part of this global celebration.
You can:
- Attend as a delegate
- Volunteer or help in planning
- Present or share your work
- Host local programme visits
- Join pre-Forum dialogues and learning networks
Mark your calendars: 14 – 17 April 2026, Hilton Kuala Lumpur, where educators, advocates, and early childhood leaders from around the world come together for a meaningful celebration of connection, culture, and shared purpose of having every child to thrive. For more information about the event, updates and participation details, please visit worldforumfoundation.org.
