Every year on Jan 24, the world unites to celebrate the International Day of Education, an event declared by the United Nations to emphasise the vital role of education in fostering global peace and sustainable development. This day serves as a powerful reminder that education is not only a fundamental human right but also the key to shaping a better world.

In this context, Malaysia stands out as a beacon of hope, demonstrating its commitment to inclusive and equitable education that leaves no one behind.

Education forms the backbone of Malaysia’s development and progress. Guided by the comprehensive Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025, the nation has made remarkable strides in providing quality education for all. The blueprint envisions an inclusive system that addresses educational gaps and ensures universal access to free, compulsory primary education. These efforts have contributed significantly to the country’s high literacy rate and improved enrolment at all levels of education – primary, secondary and tertiary.

Malaysia’s commitment to education goes beyond traditional classroom learning. Special programmes have been introduced to support communities like the Orang Asli and urban poor students, ensuring that they have opportunities to thrive academically. Initiatives like the Kelas Aliran Peralihan (Transition Classes) have successfully helped students bridge learning gaps and overcome socio-economic challenges, paving the way for a brighter future.

Teachers are the heart of any education system, and Malaysia recognises their critical role in shaping the minds and future of learners. The country has invested in professional development programmes to ensure educators are well-prepared to meet the demands of a dynamic and evolving educational landscape. The Teacher Education Institute of Malaysia (IPGM) and opportunities for postgraduate studies reflect this commitment to enhancing the teaching profession.

Developing learners at every stage of life

Research by Abdul Rashid and Abdul Rahman (2020) highlights a strong positive link between teacher professional development and student achievement in Malaysian schools. However, challenges remain, especially for educators in rural areas. Issues such as excessive workloads and limited access to resources hinder their ability to fully realise their potential as transformative agents of change. Addressing these challenges is crucial to encouraging teachers and ensuring the success of Malaysia’s education system.

The education system of Malaysia is designed to develop learners at every stage of life. Programmes like PERMATA focus on early childhood development, laying a strong foundation for intellectual and emotional growth. For adults, initiatives such as the Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM) promote lifelong learning and skill development, enabling individuals to stay competitive in an ever-changing job market.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the need for adaptability in education. Malaysia quickly adopted e-learning platforms to ensure learning continued during difficult times, bridging gaps and incorporating digital tools for the future. This shift has reinforced the vital role of technology in meeting 21st century educational needs.

Education is a powerful force for breaking the cycle of poverty and addressing social inequalities. Malaysia has implemented measures such as the Textbook Loan Scheme and financial aid programmes to ensure that no child is left behind due to economic barriers. These initiatives align with UNESCO’s Global Education Monitoring Report, which emphasises the need to tackle educational inequities as a pathway to achieving sustainable development.

Education is about creating opportunities

Not only empowering its citizens, Malaysia is also contributing to global efforts to create a more equitable and sustainable world by prioritising education for all. These measures highlight the country’s understanding that education is not just about academic achievement but about creating opportunities, fostering resilience and building a brighter future for individuals and communities.

As Malaysia joins the global community in celebrating the International Day of Education, it is a time to reflect on the transformative power of learning. Education is more than a privilege; it is a right that must be accessible to everyone, regardless of their background. Teachers, policymakers and communities must work together to overcome barriers and create an inclusive system that empowers all learners to reach their full potential.

On this special day, we are reminded of the ability of education that transforms lives and creates opportunities. Let us recommit to the transformative power of learning and work together to create a future where knowledge knows no boundaries.

-- BERNAMA

Dr Sazuliana Sanif is Deputy Dean (Academic and Students), Centre for Language Studies, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM).