PM Anwar says Year Four assessments under new education blueprint will identify weaknesses in reading, writing and arithmetic for earlier intervention.
BUTTERWORTH: The new Year Four assessments under the National Education Blueprint 2026-2035 aim to identify student weaknesses in reading, writing and arithmetic earlier.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allows for remedial action before students enter secondary school, rather than waiting for Year Six evaluations.
He emphasised the policy will better prepare the education system to produce a knowledgeable and competitive generation.
“The new national education policy focuses on improving the quality of education for the future of our children,“ he said at the launch of a new block at Seberang Jaya Hospital.
Anwar also addressed the proposal to introduce preschool education from age five.
This provides early preparation for children before they enter Year One at age six.
The government is providing free preschool facilities in schools to ensure all children get a solid foundation.
He stressed education should not be politicised with divisive issues.
The focus must remain on improving learning quality and instilling human values in a multi-ethnic society.
The government is committed to offering diverse educational pathways.
These include religious schools, international schools and language-based streams.
A condition is that students master the Malay language and Malaysian history as a foundation for unity.
Anwar clarified that students from different systems meeting these criteria should get opportunities for higher studies.
This inclusive approach ensures the education system remains fair and provides opportunities for all.
The system must also cultivate individuals with humanitarian values and respect for Malaysia’s diversity.
“It must not only focus on technology and new skills,“ he added.
