Malaysia may soon see more six-year-olds stepping into Standard 1 classrooms, and according to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, it’s all about staying competitive on the global stage.
Speaking at the launch of the National Family Love Policy (DKKN) and the Sejahtera Madani Tour – People’s Wellbeing Insurance Scheme (SIKR) in Ipoh, the Prime Minister stressed that starting formal education at six is necessary if Malaysia wants to keep up with other nations.
Fear of falling behind globally
Anwar pointed out that many countries already begin primary education at the age of six, and Malaysia risks falling behind if it does not follow suit.
If we fall behind by one year, we cannot compete. Our six-year-olds today are smarter than we were in the past. They are more exposed to various fields of knowledge,” he said.
He added that children today grow up surrounded by technology and information, making them more prepared to begin structured learning earlier.
To support the move, the government has allocated nearly RM1 billion to cover additional needs related to the intake of six-year-olds into standard 1.
So we provide them with education. We have given almost RM1 billion for additional needs,” he said.
Launched alongside two major family-focused initiatives
According to Kosmo!, the announcement was made during the launch of two key initiatives, DKKN and SIKR, at the Sultan Azlan Shah Training Institute of the Ministry of Health Malaysia in Ipoh.
The programmes involve collaboration between the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development (KPWKM), through the National Population and Family Development Board (LPPKN), and the Implementation Coordination Unit of the Prime Minister’s Department (ICU JPM).
The integration of these initiatives reflects what the government describes as a more coordinated and people-focused approach to delivering services.
What are DKKN and SIKR?
The National Family Love Policy (DKKN) is a comprehensive social policy framework that recognises families as the foundation of social stability and national resilience, especially amid socioeconomic changes, demographic shifts, and rapid digital transformation.
Meanwhile, the People’s Wellbeing Insurance Scheme (SIKR) aims to help families cope financially during unexpected crises.
It seeks to reduce the risk of families falling into poverty due to sudden events and to strengthen the country’s overall social safety net.
As discussions around education reform continue, one thing is clear: the government believes starting earlier could give Malaysian children a stronger head start in an increasingly competitive world.
What do you think about six-year-olds entering standard 1? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
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