MB: Kemas to serve as launchpad for Bangsa Johor pilot schools

New Straits Times

3 days ago

KLUANG: Johor has begun aligning Kemas preschools as feeder institutions for the state's flagship Sekolah Rintis Bangsa Johor (SRBJ), a move that marks a major shift in early childhood education.
Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi said the alignment will involve curriculum coordination, particularly the integration of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) elements.
"This transformation will elevate Johor's preschool education to a more competitive and future-ready level," he said after the Kemas Johor 2025 Madani Community Empowerment Programme launch at Dewan Muafakat in Simpang Renggam here yesterday (June 3).
More than 1,500 Kemas EMAS personnel from across the state attended the event.
The Bangsa Johor pilot school initiative, launched in 2022, aims to create a holistic and identity-driven education system tailored for Johor students.
SRBJ schools emphasise unity, academic excellence and values-based learning rooted in local identity.
To support the integration effort, the Johor government allocated RM1.5 million to upgrade Kemas-operated preschools and kindergartens, with another RM1.8 million channelled into the Iqra' and Fardu Ain programme to strengthen religious education.
Onn Hafiz also presented the Kemas Outstanding Educator Award to two long-serving educators for their contribution to early childhood development in the state.
"Johor remains committed to shaping a generation that is not only knowledgeable but also rooted in values," he said.
Kemas preschools are part of the early childhood education programme offered by the Community Development Department in the country.
They provide early education for children aged 4 to 6 years, preparing them for primary school, and fostering social and communication skills. Kemas also operates nurseries for children aged 2 to 4.