Government Allocates RM1.08 Billion to Strengthen Early Childhood Education | KiddyNews

The Malaysian government has allocated RM1.08 billion to strengthen the country’s early childhood education system, reflecting a stronger national focus on building a quality foundation for young learners, the Dewan Rakyat was told on 3 November 2025.

Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh said the allocation aims to enhance teaching quality, improve curriculum delivery, and support the rollout of the Preschool Curriculum 2026.

Out of the total, RM1.077 billion will be used for teacher salaries and related expenses, while RM9.25 million will be channelled toward non-salary costs, including professional training, curriculum improvements, and early education development programmes.

“The allocation is part of ongoing efforts to ensure our children receive a balanced and holistic education from an early age — encompassing intellectual, physical, emotional, and spiritual growth,” Wong said.

Strengthening Preschool Quality Nationwide

According to Wong, the Education Ministry is preparing training modules and value-based workshops to help teachers master the new preschool curriculum and teaching standards. The initiatives are designed to ensure educators are well-equipped with modern pedagogical approaches, nurturing not just academic knowledge but also character development and critical thinking skills.

He added that the ministry is committed to providing preschoolers with a high-quality learning environment that promotes creativity, curiosity, and confidence which are key attributes that will help children transition smoothly into primary education.

Building a Stronger Start for Malaysian Children

The new allocation demonstrates the government’s continued emphasis on early childhood education (ECE) as the cornerstone of the nation’s education system. Education experts have long highlighted that investments in early learning yield long-term benefits in literacy, social development, and national productivity.

Malaysia’s move aligns with global best practices and research from organisations such as the World Bank, which found that early education investment leads to stronger skill development and improved outcomes later in life.

The government’s RM1.08 billion allocation is expected to benefit thousands of preschool teachers and children nationwide, setting the stage for more inclusive and high-quality early learning opportunities.

Source:

Malay Mail — “RM1.08b allocated to boost early childhood education”

World Bank Group – “Improving Early Education Essential to Improve Skills in Malaysia, Support Long-term Growth, World Bank Report Says”

Thoughtfully adapted by KiddyNews. Keeping parents and educators informed with the latest ECCE developments from Malaysia and beyond.