Sabrina: 'It would also be easier for them to develop literacy and numeracy skills as well as emotional resilience'. - BB
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (Borneo Bulletin/Asia News Network): Parents and residents welcomed the recent amendment on the announcement regarding the new compulsory age for children to start schooling, especially those with children born later in the year leading them to miss the first year of schooling.
The compulsory age for children to start schooling was amended from six to five, as announced by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah in a decree during the recent 33rd Teacher’s Day celebration.
In the decree, the monarch consented to the amendment of the Compulsory Education Act Chapter 211, pertaining to the compulsory age for children where the Sultan underscored that the amendment aims to strengthen early childhood education, which is a key aspect in building the foundation for children’s cognitive, social and emotional development.
Speaking to the Bulletin, Saifulizam, a father to two boys, said that he fully supports the new amendment as it allows children to harness their crucial cognitive development period, providing a strong foundation for future learning and academic success.
Starting education at the age of five can also help children to interact with their peers and develop essential social skills such as sharing, cooperation, and communication, he said.
“Children can also be prepared for the structured environment of a primary school and early education programmes that often involve parents in their child’s learning journey,” Saifulizam said.
“By actively participating in your child’s education and creating a supportive and enriching environment, you can help them develop a strong foundation for lifelong learning and success. Be patient with your child’s progress and provide emotional support when they face challenges.”
Nurul Maz, a young mother of four was delighted with the new amendment. “Parents can cut the cost of sending their young children to pre-school before officially sending their kids to the full schooling according to the compulsory age requirement,” she said.
Meanwhile, for Sabrina, she said it is a good move considering children today are adaptable to the surroundings and are always inquisitive hence allowing them to start early at pre-school would help them to take advantage of their curiosity.
“They also get to mingle with their friends and get the right exposure as well as help them develop good habits under the guidance of their teachers. It would also be easier for them to develop literacy and numeracy skills as well as emotional resilience,” she said.
