The Ministry of Education (MOE) has announced that private limited companies operating private education institutions under the ministry will no longer be subject to the requirement for at least 30% Bumiputera equity.
The decision was made following discussions with the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI).
The aim is clear: to allow more parties with the resources and expertise to contribute towards improving Malaysia’s education system.
This is important because Malaysia still faces major challenges in raising the quality of education.
The latest Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2025 results show that only 35% of Malaysian students achieved at least basic proficiency in Mathematics. The figures were 44% for reading and 54% for science.
Malaysia also remains below the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) average in all three areas.
Our priority must be clear: raise the quality of education for every Malaysian child.
We need more investment, expertise, quality teachers and new ideas to strengthen our education system.
Allowing more capable parties to contribute can create more choices and educational opportunities for our children.
Ultimately, the focus should be on ensuring that every Malaysian child has access to quality education and the opportunity to fulfil their potential.