Malaysia’s New Education Curriculum focuses on listening to students and teachers, with reforms in preschool, grading, and technology starting this year
PUTRAJAYA: The Ministry of Education has placed the ‘small voices’ of teachers, students, and school communities at the core of its national education reform.
Minister Fadhlina Sidek said reforms serve to translate these voices into action, ensuring initiatives move beyond discourse.
“Student development is only meaningful when we truly listen to the voices of students and teachers, because that is where the pulse of education lies,” she stated.
The New Education Curriculum will be implemented in stages beginning this year, starting with the 2026 Preschool Curriculum.
It emphasises character development, self-management, reading, integrated learning, and early digital technology exposure.
The curriculum also ensures a safe and inclusive learning environment for students with special needs.
Preschool facilities will be upgraded with smart televisions and an expanded ‘Jom Baca Bersama’ programme.
A target of 350 additional preschool classes is set for this year, including in eight matriculation colleges.
Another 150 classes are planned for 2027, supported by an RM125 million allocation for renovation and maintenance.
A new school grading system will be implemented starting this year, considering factors like enrolment and dormitory occupancy.
This system addresses union demands, allowing Grade DG12 teachers to become senior assistants in primary schools.
It also provides greater flexibility for teachers wishing to change their work locations.
The ministry has identified 14 Quick Win initiatives under the Malaysia Education Development Plan 2026-2035.
These initiatives tackle overcrowded schools, dilapidated infrastructure, and special education needs.
Seventeen new schools will begin operations this year, with 50 dilapidated schools scheduled for upgrading.
Computer laboratory equipment will be provided to 1,801 schools across the country.
For inclusive education, 200 new special education classes will open in phases.
The Comprehensive Special Model School (K11) programme will expand alongside a new Special Education Sports School in Bandar Enstek.
To support staff, 1,470 teaching assistants will be deployed and 600 full-time hostel wardens appointed from March.
In educational technology, 800 schools will implement an AI-Powered Classroom programme.
The AI-based DELIMa 3.0 learning platform will be rolled out starting this month.
Pre-university students received one-off Early Schooling Assistance of RM150 for the first time.
This assistance was channelled to 99,678 Form Six students to support their higher education.
Fadhlina called on teachers, administrators, parents, and corporate players to collectively build the future of education.
“The true success of education is not measured solely by global achievements, but by our children growing into civilised and resilient individuals,” she concluded.
