PUTRAJAYA, Jan 20 — Starting next year, parents will have the choice of enrolling their children into preschool from age five and age six for Year One of primary school, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today.

He added that parents are not compelled to do so if they feel their child is not ready. 

“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 during the launch of the National Education Blueprint 2026-2035, held at the international convention centre here.

“The entire system will be taken over and standardised by the Education Ministry, starting with five-year-olds. Children will start Year 1 at six. For four-year-olds, additional funding will be provided.

“Naturally, preparations are being expedited. That is why I have directed both ministries, together with the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Economy, to take immediate action to ensure basic facilities are enhanced,” he added.

Anwar said the Education Ministry initially planned to implement this by 2029 or 2030, but the government decided to move it up to ensure Malaysia can achieve its educational and national development goals.

He also said that Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programmes, including STEM and digital courses, will now start from Form 1 instead of Form 3, allowing students to choose specialised pathways earlier.

* Editor’s note: The headline of an earlier version incorrectly stated that the age of enrolment was raised instead of lowered and has since been amended.