Education ministry to propose review of tuition centre ownership rules

The Malaysian education ministry plans to propose a review of the ownership rules for tuition centres following concerns over a recent requirement. The centres would need to have a 30% Bumiputera equity stake for licence renewals starting in 2027. Education officials believe the sector should remain open to all parties interested in contributing to children's education.

They are considering the proposal for Cabinet review next week after hearing various opinions. The ministry acknowledged the views expressed and thanked operators for their past contributions, pledging ongoing collaboration to strengthen education. The issue surfaced when Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung highlighted an alleged guideline demanding the Bumiputera equity rule.

Opposition groups, including the Melaka Action Group for Parents in Education and scholar Sharifah Munirah Alatas, criticised the provision. They argued it could racially divide the education sector and might not promote true Bumiputera entrepreneurship.