New Preschool Teachers and Implementation of Inclusive Classes Issues in Malaysia

Abstract

This topic introduces the Preschool Education issues from Malaysian's perspectives. Two fundamental issues have been highlighted; new preschool teachers' application of knowledge and skills and inclusive early childhood education for special needs children. Actions taken are discussed in the light of governments' and non-government agencies. The policy for minimum qualification of a diploma for nursery and preschool teachers are driving the early childhood in the private sector to move forward. For the inclusivity of special needs children, the government has taken initiatives to provide accessibility and equity to these children. The implication highlight the need for keeping advocacy efforts intentional and focused by developing strong relationships with early childhood education leaders, partners in federal agencies and government. Introduction Today, responsibilities to issue license for the provision early childhood care and education fall under two ministries, namely, the Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development and the Ministry of Education (MoE). The Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development through the Department of Social Welfare caters for child care or nursery children aged newborn to four years old. Preschool provision for children aged four to six years old comes under the jurisdiction of Ministry of Education. Besides these two main license issuance government ministries, there are 3 rd Ministry which also offers early childhood education and care, namely, the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development, Department of National Unity and Integration as well as Department of PERMATA under the Prime Minister's Department. Other non-governmental and private agencies as well as religious organizations are also providing early childhood education and care. Therefore, the provision of early childhood education and care are offered by both government ministries and non-government agencies.