KOTA SAMARAHAN: Early childhood education organised by the Community Development Department (KEMAS) has been internationally recognised with the 2024 Most Trusted Brand Gold Award by READER’S DIGEST in the Consumer Choice Preschool Learning Centre category in Malaysia.
The study evaluated aspects such as quality, innovation, social responsibility, reliability, credibility, and understanding of service users’ needs, which led to this award for the fifth time, in addition to similar awards received in 2017, 2020, 2022, and 2023.
Deputy Minister for Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang noted the importance of early childhood education in shaping children’s interests and future ambitions.
“Therefore, it is the responsibility of parents to choose the best early childhood education to ensure that the development of children’s minds is shaped in the best possible way,” the Kota Samarahan MP said.
Currently, 17,322 children are enrolled in 1,342 KEMAS Nursery Schools nationwide, with 1,229 children attending 547 KEMAS Nurseries throughout Sarawak.
Rubiah stressed that the extraordinary response reflects KEMAS’ significant role in advancing early childhood education in the country.
She added that this success requires KEMAS to enhance existing educational modules to better meet the evolving needs of the education sector.
“With the concept of ‘Low Cost, High Impact,’ parents and guardians need not worry about the quality of education provided at KEMAS Nursery and Daycare Schools across the state and country. Although KEMAS is recognised for offering some of the lowest fees, the quality of services remains top-notch.”
She also noted that despite receiving various international awards and recognitions, KEMAS continues to improve its programmes and modules. KEMAS has introduced the STREAM curriculum (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) in line with national educational goals to foster interest in science and technology.
“This initiative ensures that children from KEMAS are well-rounded in their social, emotional, physical, intellectual, and spiritual development (SEFIR).”
In response to the Ministry’s call for digitalisation, KEMAS is also transforming its early childhood education with initiatives such as E-RPH for nurseries and pilot E-RPA for daycares, alongside expanding internet access at KEMAS facilities.
“KEMAS is committed to maintaining high standards in early childhood education, with all teaching staff required to hold at least a Diploma in Early Childhood Education,” Rubiah added.
Earlier, 519 children from KEMAS Nurseries in the Kota Samarahan Parliamentary constituency received certificates and plaques of excellence during the ceremony.
The event was attended by Sarawak KEMAS director Anisah Saidin, administrators, teachers, parents and students.
