KUALA LUMPUR – Perikatan Nasional (PN) youth chief, Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden, has urged the Education Ministry (MoE) to urgently clarify its readiness to implement the policy allowing six-year-olds to enter Year One in government schools.
Speaking at a press conference in Parliament today, the Alor Setar MP said parents have been left anxious and confused due to the lack of concrete information from the ministry.
“Parents are stressed, anxious, and rushing to ensure their children do not fall behind, yet the ministry has remained silent,” he said.
“They must explain clearly and transparently whether our schools are ready. If they are not, this policy should be postponed for at least two years to ensure everyone is fully prepared.”
Afnan Hamimi warned that a rushed implementation could lead to chaos and negatively affect pupils.
“The problem is disorder. We fear children may become like lab rats if this is done hastily. Don’t rush. Do it properly. When it is done properly, everyone can support it. But if it’s chaotic, then what’s the point?”
He said the ministry has yet to provide answers to basic questions.
“We still don’t know how many schools are prepared, how many pupils can be accommodated, or whether teachers are ready. These are fundamental issues, yet no answers have been given.”
The youth leader also highlighted concerns over the registration process, which opened on February 15 and will continue until March 31.
“The registration covers children born in 2020, entering at age seven, as well as those born throughout 2021. When registration is open for both age groups, parents panic to ensure their six-year-olds are not left behind. But are our schools truly ready?” he asked.
He drew an analogy to online shopping, saying, “If we order a parcel online, we want to track its progress. This is exactly what the public wants to know: how far along is this process?”
According to Afnan Hamimi, internal sources indicate that the ministry is only planning briefings and discussions with teachers and education officers in April 2026.
“Even those inside the system are confused. They don’t know how to implement this. Confused, overwhelmed — it’s a mess,” he said.
“If the system is not ready, postpone it for at least two years. This is not just about policy; it’s about ensuring our children are not stressed, and our schools are fully prepared. The ministry must answer properly. Don’t play games. Don’t be vague. Parents deserve clarity and our children deserve a system that is ready. We at PN will monitor this situation diligently,” he added. — February 26, 2026