Many Malaysians Are Unsatisfied About the Education System, Study Finds | KiddyNews

Fewer than half of Malaysians say they are satisfied with the country’s education system, according to a new survey by Ipsos, a global market research and polling company that studies public opinion worldwide.

Survey Shows Worrying Numbers

The survey, conducted among 500 Malaysians, found that only 44% view the education system positively. This puts Malaysia among the lowest-ranked nations out of 30 countries in the global survey.

In comparison, countries like India and Singapore recorded much higher satisfaction rates, showing how Malaysians are increasingly critical about local schools.

Key Concerns From Parents and Citizens

When asked about the biggest issues in education, Malaysians pointed to three main problems:

• Unequal access to education – Some children, especially in rural or low-income communities, do not have the same opportunities as others.
• Poor or outdated school facilities – From overcrowded classrooms to aging infrastructure, many schools are struggling to provide a safe, comfortable environment.
• Limited use of technology – Although digital tools are now a key part of modern learning, many classrooms still lack proper resources.
  
  

Technology and Digital Policies

Interestingly, only about a quarter of Malaysians surveyed believe that technology has had a strong positive impact on education. This suggests that while digital tools are available, they may not be used effectively or equally across schools.

At the same time, respondents showed support for stricter digital rules for children. Many agreed with ideas like banning smartphones in lower grades and keeping social media off-limits to children under 14, reflecting concerns about online safety and student focus.

Growing Awareness of Mental Health

Another important finding was the concern about youth mental health. More Malaysians highlighted stress, anxiety, and emotional wellbeing as critical issues in the school environment. This signals a growing awareness that education is not just about grades, but also about supporting children’s emotional development.

Why This Matters for Families

Education experts warn that low public satisfaction should not be ignored. If parents lose confidence in the system, they may seek costly alternatives like private or international schools, which could widen inequality.

Improving school infrastructure, strengthening teacher training, investing in technology, and supporting students’ mental health are steps that could help rebuild trust. For families, a strong education system means children can grow up in an environment that is fair, modern, and supportive of both learning and wellbeing.

Source:

Malay Mail — “Malaysia ranks among lowest for education satisfaction in 30-country Ipsos poll”

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