Leaders Urged to Put Children at the Heart of Early Education Policies | KiddyNews

Call for Stronger Focus on Child Well-Being

Policymakers have been urged to prioritise the well-being of children, with a strong emphasis on early care and education as a foundation for national development.

The Raja Muda of Selangor, Tengku Amir Shah Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, said children’s voices and futures must remain central to policies, discussions and action. His remarks were delivered at the welcoming ceremony of the Kuala Lumpur 2026 World Forum on Early Care and Education, attended by about 650 delegates from 50 countries.

Early Education Must Go Beyond Access

In his address, Tengku Amir Shah highlighted that education is a powerful tool for transformation, but stressed that it must extend beyond access alone.

He said learning must be meaningful, inclusive and responsive to every child, regardless of their background, abilities or circumstances. Classrooms, he added, should celebrate diversity and ensure that no child is left behind.

Removing Barriers to Children’s Development

Leaders and communities were also called upon to address barriers that hinder children’s development.

This includes strengthening child protection systems, supporting families, investing in mental health, and ensuring that children grow up in safe environments grounded in dignity and respect.

He emphasised the need for collective action to create opportunities for every child to thrive and reach their full potential.

Global Forum Highlights Early Childhood Priorities

The four-day forum, organised by the World Forum Foundation (WFF), brought together early childhood professionals from around the world, including educators, researchers, and childcare specialists.

The event marked Malaysia’s second time hosting the forum, following its first in 2007. A symbolic wooden bowl was presented during the opening ceremony to represent the foundation’s commitment to young children.

Platform for Ideas, Collaboration and Advocacy

Local host chair Anne Sivanathan described the gathering as an important platform to exchange ideas and strengthen partnerships in early childhood education.

She said the presence of international delegates reflected a shared commitment to investing in young children and building stronger support systems for their development.

The conference featured plenary sessions addressing global issues such as racism and climate change, alongside networking activities including storytelling sessions, film screenings and collaborative engagements.

Expanding Diversity in Early Childhood Workforce

Among the topics discussed was the need to increase male participation in early childhood education.

Speaker Jerry Parr noted that in the United States, men make up less than 4% of the early childhood workforce. He said greater representation could benefit children, particularly in fostering healthier long-term relationships, especially for those without male role models at home.

However, he acknowledged that early childhood education is still not widely seen as a viable career path for men.

Celebrating Culture and Community

The event also featured cultural performances, including traditional dances and music by local groups and children, reflecting the importance of community and cultural identity in early childhood experiences.

Strengthening Early Childhood Education for the Future

The forum underscored a shared global message: investing in early childhood care and education is essential to building inclusive, compassionate and resilient societies.

As discussions continue, stakeholders are reminded that meaningful change will require not just policies, but sustained action to ensure every child is supported from the very beginning.

Source:

The Star  – “Supporting early care for children”

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