CHILDREN entering Year One early at age six starting from the 2027 session will complete their upper secondary education at 16, according to the Ministry of Education (MOE).
In a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document, the ministry explained that these pupils will not remain in Year One for two years. Instead, they will follow the existing structure of six years in primary and five years in secondary school.
"Pupils will undergo five years of secondary education and complete upper secondary education at the age of 16 (15+)," the document prepared by the MOE Education Policy Planning and Research Division said.
According to reports in Bernama, the ministry stressed that early admission is a voluntary option for parents and depends on the readiness of children who have attended preschool at age five and passed diagnostic screening.
To maintain learning quality, the ministry said the 2027 School Curriculum is tailored to pupils' cognitive levels.
"This includes those who may not have attended preschool, ensuring they master basic skills effectively."
On infrastructure, the ministry plans to construct additional classrooms using the Industrialised Building System (IBS) method to meet nationwide demand.
The ministry is also committed to ensuring a sufficient supply of teachers through various channels, including the Bachelor of Education Programme (PISMP), the Postgraduate Diploma in Education Programme (PDPP), and appointments under the Contract of Service (COS).
The early entry policy is part of the national education system's flexibility to provide opportunities for children who achieve academic readiness early to begin formal schooling before the age of seven. – January 21, 2026
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