Childcare is economic infrastructure, not ‘just a job’, says Tengku Zafrul

Prime Minister's Senior Political Adviser Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz emphasized that the childcare profession should be recognized as a crucial component of the family economy rather than just a job involving child-rearing. Zafrul stated that dependable childcare providers enable parents to work with greater confidence while ensuring their children receive appropriate care, thereby integrating the childcare sector into the nation's economic and social support system.

He argued that it is essential to alter the prevailing notion that childcare is merely a job. Instead, Zafrul highlighted that nurturing those who care for children is akin to safeguarding Malaysia's future. At the opening of the Central Zone Gala Pesona Kasih Madani, held at the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council Convention Centre, he elaborated on his personal interactions with communities, which revealed how families heavily rely on trusted childcare providers.

These providers not only allow parents to maintain their work schedules but also guarantee the well-being of their children.

Zafrul advocated for ongoing focus on training, certification, recognition, and legislation pertaining to the childcare sector to establish higher standards and garner deserved acknowledgment. He mentioned that insights and challenges voiced by childcare providers via the programme would be forwarded to the Finance Ministry and the Prime Minister for inclusion in the 2027 Budget planning. This would encompass support, training, certification, and the growth of related initiatives.

The Central Zone Gala Pesona Kasih Madani, attended by around 600 informal childcare providers, family members, mentors, partners, and stakeholders, aimed at enhancing home-based childcare providers' knowledge, skills, and professionalism in Malaysia. Since its inception in August 2025, Kasih Madani has engaged over 1,000 childcare providers across four states: Kuala Lumpur, Perak, Kedah, and Penang.

This initiative, spearheaded by Merdeka Center with Yayasan Sime Darby and the Ministry of Finance’s Budget 2026 backing, centers on professional skill development, career planning, leadership, personal branding, and mentoring.