More parents are voicing frustration over increasingly extravagant kindergarten graduation ceremonies, with some preschools now hosting the events in hotels and dressing six-year-olds in full academic gowns and mortarboards.
The trend, which has become more common in recent years, is putting financial pressure on families — and triggering heated debate online.
“Who started this trend?”
A Malaysian mother took to Threads to question the growing culture of “high-end” preschool graduations.
“Who started this trend of moving kindergarten graduations outside the school? Why must we spend tens of ringgit just to see our six-year-old walk on stage? Can’t it be done in school?” she wrote.
She added that not all parents can afford the extra expenses, especially when ceremonies today come with add-ons such as hotel venues, themed decorations and rented graduation robes.
Many parents agree
Many parents echoed her sentiment, saying they were shocked by the high fees required just to attend their child’s ceremony.
Some questioned whether a six-year-old even needs such an elaborate celebration.
‘Which school, sis? My child is in preschool this year. I only paid RM45 (RM15 for robe rental + RM30 for photography) but it was held in the school.’
‘My preschool even did a 3-day 2-night graduation trip to Melaka.’
‘Omg you’re okay with tens of Ringgit. My daughter is in a Chinese preschool. Her graduation fee is RM270 and it will be held at the SEGi College auditorium. Her graduation photoshoot is RM100. Her graduation album is RM340. Dinner per pax is RM120 (kids below 4 are free). It’s crazy… I even had to adjust my budget for the teachers’ gifts. Even finishing preschool is so expensive already.’
