Kedah: Parents are advised not to panic regarding the entry of Year One at age six in 2027, as only those who are truly ready and pass a special assessment will be selected for the programme. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the readiness of children is the most important factor to be evaluated, adding that the ministry (MOE) will conduct a diagnostic test to assess various criteria, including the child's psycho-emotional state.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Fadhlina emphasized that parents should remain calm and view this initiative as a reform in the education system. She clarified that the programme would initially be optional, stressing that decisions should be based on a child's readiness rather than parental discretion alone. The Minister made these remarks following the PAKAT Preschool Programme event at the Kedah State Education Department.
On the infrastructure front, Fadhlina mentioned that the diagnostic tests would generate data on the number of students likely to enroll, aiding in logistical and infrastructural preparations. "The MOE is identifying schools that are ready with the necessary classrooms. If classrooms are insufficient, we are prepared to build them using the Industrialised Building System (IBS), which can be completed quickly," she added.
Further, Fadhlina assured that the MOE would allocate teachers to meet the increased demand, ensuring that educators are well-equipped to handle six-year-olds entering Year One. "Overall, preparations are underway in terms of infrastructure, teachers, and the diagnostic test. We will keep parents informed so they can be prepared and make the best decision for their children," she said.
The announcement follows a statement by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who revealed that beginning in 2027, the option for six-year-olds to enter Year One would be incorporated into the Malaysian Education Blueprint (RPM) 2026-2035. While this initiative will be optional, it emphasizes parental choice based on a child's readiness.
Fadhlina also addressed the growing trend of increasing enrollment of special needs students, prompting the MOE to expand special education facilities and capacity nationwide. She noted that special education remains a primary focus in implementing the new curriculum designed to cater to the specific needs of special needs students.
"We see a trend every year, a 20 per cent increase in enrollment of special needs education children. So we see that there is a very urgent need for us to expand it," she said, outlining plans to enhance special education sports schools and infrastructure to ensure inclusivity.