The Ministry of Education (MOE) is on track to open 1,040 new preschool classes between 2023 and 2027, reinforcing the government’s push to expand access to early childhood education nationwide.
In a written parliamentary reply published on Tuesday, the ministry said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring every child has access to quality preschool education regardless of location or background.
The ministry was responding to a question from Zahir Hassan, who sought the latest data on MOE preschool enrolment and classrooms, as well as plans to streamline preschool management.
As of May 31, MOE operates 10,491 preschool classes nationwide, serving 217,026 children.
The ministry said the effort is complemented by other agencies, with the Department of Community Development (KEMAS) operating 10,536 preschools for 204,412 children, while the National Unity and Integration Department (JPNIN) runs 1,781 Unity Preschools serving 34,008 children.
Overall, 22,808 preschool classrooms under MOE, KEMAS and JPNIN were operating nationwide as of May 31, accommodating 455,446 children aged between four and six.
MOE said new preschool classes are being rolled out through projects under the Five-Year Malaysia Plan and by expanding facilities at existing schools based on local demand and enrolment projections.
On proposals to place all preschool management under a single ministry, MOE said a special committee comprising the ministry, the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development, the Ministry of National Unity and other stakeholders has been established to study the proposal comprehensively.
The review is being aligned with the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2026–2035 and the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP), which prioritise greater access, equity and quality in education.
The ministry added that it is also focusing on strengthening preschool education through the implementation of the 2026 Preschool Curriculum to narrow learning gaps among children.
The ongoing review also covers policy and legal frameworks, staffing, financing, assets and infrastructure, curriculum, and operational matters before any final decision is made.
