Navigating Inclusive Education in Malaysia
Introduction
The previous article on “Understanding Inclusive Education for Students with Autism” discussed every child’s right to access the same educational opportunities, regardless of their abilities. It also covered the definitions of special needs education and inclusive education as outlined in Malaysian legislation and current practices.
In this article, we will explore the options available for students with special education needs (SEN) in Malaysia within the Ministry of Education (MOE) system.
Current Options for Special Needs Education in Malaysia
The Education Blueprint 2013 – 2025 aims to ensure inclusive and fair education for all students, including those with SEN. By 2025, Malaysia plans to have at least 75% of students with SEN enrolled in mainstream classes.
For parents seeking the right school for their autistic child, understanding these options is crucial. The MOE provides three main settings for special needs education. There is also the option of private schools which have varying levels of support for students with autism.
Inclusive Education Programme (Program Pendidikan Inklusif – PPI)
- Students with SEN join mainstream classrooms for some or all subjects.
- Some inclusive programmes only include non-academic subjects like art, music, and sports, rather than a full school day.
Integrated Special Education Programme (Program Pendidikan Khas Integrasi – PPKI)
- Students with SEN join mainstream classrooms for some or all subjects.
- These students are placed in segregated classrooms within mainstream school compounds.
Special Education Schools (Sekolah Pendidikan Khas – SPK)
- Standalone special education schools are gradually being phased out.
- These are now mainstream schools that implement the Integrated Special Education Programme (PPKI) or Inclusive Education Programme (PPI) for students with SEN.
- These programmes are available at pre-school, primary, secondary, and tertiary education levels.
For more information on MOE programmes for special education, go to:
A Note on Inclusive Education Programme (Program Pendidikan Inklusif – PPI):
- Inclusive education is not yet the standard practice in Malaysia, which limits its use in mainstream classrooms.
- Whether students with disabilities get enough support in mainstream classrooms depends on the school leadership and teachers.
- The MOE encourages schools to run PPI, but not all schools do.
- In 2023, 6,641 primary and secondary schools had PPI.
How to Find a School for My Autistic Child?
Options for schooling for students with SEN are linked to their level of support needs:
- Students with low support needs who can handle the mainstream curriculum and assessments, are encouraged to join the Inclusive Education Programme (PPI).
- Students with moderate levels of support needs will participate in the Special Needs Integration Programme (PPKI).
- Students who need substantial support are encouraged to attend special education schools, where they can learn a simplified curriculum focused on basic skills, life skills, and social skills.
You can search for schools within the MOE website by going to this search portal.
There is also a helpful step-by-step guide by Dr. Annie Liau at How To Search For PPKI School On Malaysian MOE Website : EasyGuide
Getting an education for students with SEN in mainstream schools can be tough. It often requires parents and allies to be strategic and persistent advocates.
Find support from other parents who are going through similar situations in
Resources > Useful Links.
The National Family Support Group for Children and People with Special Needs has created a FAQ document to support parents of children with SEN in advocating for their right to inclusive education in mainstream settings. You can access the document in the resources section below.
Resources
Guidelines
MOE Programmes for SEN