Kuala lumpur: A total of 99.8 per cent of preschool teacher posts under the Education Ministry (MOE) have been filled as of July 1, with 10,478 teachers placed nationwide to meet the growing demand for early childhood education, the Dewan Rakyat was told today.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Minister Wong Kah Woh stated that from 2023 to 2025, 1,202 new preschool teachers have been deployed, with recruitment efforts continuing in phases to align with projected increases in enrolment. The MOE has enhanced service training and implemented both pre-service and in-service programmes to ensure teachers possess the necessary qualifications and competencies for early childhood education.

Wong highlighted that as of May 31, the ministry operated 10,491 preschool classes nationwide, benefiting 217,026 pupils. The selection of locations for new classes is based on a comprehensive assessment, including the number of children in the eligible age group and local demand.

Addressing a supplementary question from Hassan Abdul Saad (PN-Baling) regarding access to government preschool education, Wong revealed that the ministry plans to open 300 more classes next year. The target is to open a total of 1,040 new classes over the next five years. Additionally, the ministry intends to expand preschool classes and collaborate with State Education Departments, the Community Development Department (KEMAS), and other relevant agencies to improve access for six-year-old children who have yet to attend preschool.