MOE Targets 350 New Preschool Classes In 2026 To Strengthen Early Education

PUTRAJAYA, Dec 6 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Education (MOE) is targeting the opening of 350 new preschool classes in 2026 as part of efforts to further strengthen early childhood education in the country, said Education director-general Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad.

He said the planned addition would increase the total number of preschool classes nationwide to nearly 10,500, compared with the current 10,100.

“Education is important for us to give to our children. Access to quality education ultimately enables them to go further (in life),” he said as one of the panelists at the 2025 National Convention on Public Service Reform, held in conjunction with the Rancakkan MADANI Bersama Malaysiaku programme here today.

Other panelists in the forum, which discussed the role of the health and education sectors in addressing poverty, were World Bank senior economist Dr Ririn Salwa Purnamasari and social media influencer Dr Muhammad Shazril Shaharuddin.

Mohd Azam said that upgrading dilapidated schools also remains a priority, with maintenance work carried out on 41 schools in 2024 and another 43 scheduled for this year.

Meanwhile, Dr Muhammad Shazril called on Malaysians to pay attention to the health aspect because it is a national investment and not just an individual one.

“Lack of awareness will ultimately burden the health sector. When we prioritise our well-being, it positively impacts the nation, the economy and even the education system.

“If the people wish to progress, they must understand that good health is not optional - it is the fundamental foundation of life,” he said.

The three-day Rancakkan MADANI programme, which began yesterday, features more than 300 people-centric services, a career carnival, interactive exhibitions, family activities and various special offers for the public.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to officiate the closing ceremony at 11 am tomorrow (Dec 7).

-- BERNAMA