Kuala Lumpur, El Sky News – The Malaysian Parliament has passed the Education (Amendment) Act 2025, making secondary education compulsory for all Malaysian children. This move is part of the Malaysia Education Development Plan (PPPM) 2026–2035 and is expected to reduce schooldropout rates and improve the country’s overall education standard.
Key Details of the Amendment
- The Education (Amendment) Act 2025 requires all children aged 13–17 to be enrolled in secondary schools, whether government or recognized private institutions.
- Parents or guardians who fail to enroll their children in secondary education may face a fine of up to RM5,000 or imprisonment of up to six months.
- The amendment also outlines the responsibilities of schools and teachers to ensure students complete the secondary curriculum, including attendance monitoring and reporting.
Purpose and Benefits
- To reduce school dropout rates, particularly in rural and vulnerable communities.
- To provide equitable access to secondary education in line with the Malaysia Madani vision.
- To prepare students for higher education and the workforce, equipping them with academic competence, social skills, and critical thinking abilities.
Reactions and Comments
- The Ministry of Education welcomed this move as a major reform, emphasizing that it will be supported by programs and monitoring systems to ensure no student is left behind.
- Educational organizations view this as a strategic step to strengthen the nation’s educational foundation but stress the need for support for teachers, infrastructure, and families to ensure smooth implementation.
Long-Term Impact
- The amendment is expected to increase secondary school participation rates to nearly 100%.
- The policy reinforces Malaysia’s commitment to quality and inclusive education, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This amendment marks a significant transformation in Malaysia’s education system, establishing secondary education as both a right and responsibility for all youth, strengthening the foundation for the nation’s human capital development
