In the beginning, it’s is more of child care center.
Kindergarten were only set up by the churches in the 1950′s
In late 50′s and early 60′s, education was emphasized. Kindergarten was only for the children from the rich families. There was no professional training for the teachers.
Traditional curriculum was used namely the 3M(Mengira, Membaca, Menulis).
The ministry of Education later reported that children had better achievement if they attended pre-school before heading to primary school.
1969, Asia Foundation gave grant to Worker Society of Malaysia to open 3 children center model at Selangor similar to American “Head Start project”. Target of this preschool is for children from poor families.
1969, KEMAS started to get involved in preschool education in 196 for children from poor family.
1970′s, FELDA established preschool education center.
1973, Malaysian Kindergarten Association was established with the help of Sister Denise Paguatte.
1976, Preschool (TABIKA) of National Unity Department was established.
1980, RISDA established preschool for children of rubber planters.
There are 3 agencies that are responsible towards early childhood education in Malaysia:
- Government
- Social organization
- Private sector
