KPM akan cadang semakan syarat pemilikan pusat tuisyen

The Malaysian Ministry of Education (KPM) is set to present proposals to the Cabinet for review regarding the requirements for Bumiputera ownership in educational centers, ahead of a potential change in regulations starting from 2027. This comes after concerns were raised about the 30% Bumiputera share ownership rule for educational centers.

The move follows concerns over the 30% Bumiputera share ownership requirement for educational centers aiming for licensing renewal by 2027. KPM believes the education sector should remain open to all parties contributing to the development and learning of Malaysian children. Consequently, KPM will present proposals for revisiting the rules related to educational center ownership structures for consideration by the Cabinet next week, according to a statement.

Undoubtedly, it takes into account the perspective of the 30% Bumiputera share ownership rule and remains open to hearing the views of all parties. It also acknowledges the appreciation towards the educational center operators for their contributions thus far and will continue to work closely with all parties to further develop the education sector.

The issue arose early this week after Petaling Jaya MP Lee Chean Chung highlighted KPM's guidelines that were allegedly mandating educational centers to have 30% Bumiputera ownership for license renewal next year. Lee urged KPM to clarify the basis for the rule and discuss with educational center operators, in addition to providing clear guidance on its implementation.

Education advocacy group Parents Action for Malaysian Education (Magpie) and independent researcher Sharifah Munirah Alatas criticized the rule and urged KPM to revoke it. Magpie President Mak Chee Kin questioned the justification for mandating existing businesses - some operating for decades - to relinquish 30% of their ownership to continue operations.

Sharifah argued that the basis risks creating racial sentiment in the education sector and may not necessarily foster robust Bumiputera entrepreneurship.