FROM next year, preschool education in Malaysia will begin at age five, while Year One will start at age six.
Announcing this today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, said the changes will not yet be mandatory for parents, allowing time for all parties — especially educators — to prepare for the new learning environment.
“In 2027, parents may choose for their children to enter Year One at either six or seven years old. This reflects the demands of changing times while recognising individual readiness,” he said.
Speaking during the launch of the National Education Plan 2026–2035 here today, he also announced that Year 4 pupils will take a new standardised assessment starting this year.
"The test will cover five subjects, which are Bahasa Melayu, English, Science, Mathematics and History.
“The Year 4 assessment will be administered by the Malaysian Examination Board,” he said.
Anwar explained that children today, as young as five years old, can differentiate between things and are more mature than previous generations.
"Previously, children were only eligible to enter Grade One at the age of seven.
"At the same time, we will focus comprehensively on the preschool system. We ask the Ministry of Education (MOE) to take over and coordinate it," he said.
He also assured that all preparations regarding the matter will be expedited.
"I have instructed that from now on, matters announced must be acted upon quickly by the ministries involved to ensure that all basic facilities are added," he said. - January 20, 2026
