A Complete Beginner’s Guide to Early Childhood Education in Malaysia (2025)

A Complete Beginner’s Guide to Early Childhood Education in Malaysia (2025)

In Malaysia, more young adults, school leavers, and even career changers are now considering a meaningful and rewarding profession: becoming a preschool teacher.

But many still ask:

“Can I apply if I don’t have an education background?”
“What course should I take?”
“What if I have experience but no diploma?”

This page gives you a clear roadmap on how to become a certified preschool teacher in Malaysia, even if you're starting from scratch.

✅ Step 1: What Are the Basic Qualifications to Teach in a Preschool?

According to Malaysia’s Ministry of Education (MOE), anyone teaching in a registered preschool (Tadika) must hold a recognized early childhood education qualification.

Commonly accepted qualifications include:

1. Diploma in Early Childhood Education (ECE Diploma)

• Duration: 2–3 years (available full-time or online)

• Core modules: Child psychology, teaching strategies, classroom safety, art/music integration

• Popular institutions: SEGi College, HELP University, Kolej Dika, Open University Malaysia (OUM)

2. Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia (SKM – ECCE Pathway)

• Regulated by JPK (Department of Skills Development, Malaysia)

• Levels:

  • Level 3: Basic teaching skills

  • Level 4–5: Curriculum planning & supervisory roles

• A more practical and hands-on certification route

🧑‍💼 Step 2: Already Have Experience, But No Diploma?

You can apply through the RPEL (Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning) program.
This allows teachers who have worked in kindergartens without formal certification to convert their experience into a recognized qualification.

• Ideal for assistant teachers or caregivers with 2+ years of experience

• Assessment includes portfolio review, interviews, and teaching observation

🌍 Step 3: Can I Pursue International Certifications?

While not mandatory, international certifications boost your credibility and job options, especially in private or international kindergartens.

Top international programs include:

• Montessori Teacher Certification (AMS / MACTE)

• Cambridge Early Years Programme

• TEYL (Teaching English to Young Learners)

• Child Development Associate (CDA – USA)

📚 Step 4: What Does a Preschool Teacher Really Do?

Preschool teaching isn’t just about “watching kids” — it’s a professional role that requires planning, creativity, and strong interpersonal skills.

Daily responsibilities include:

• 🎨 Planning activities: theme-based lessons, art, music, play

• 👶 Caring for daily hygiene, nutrition, and safety

• ✍️ Keeping records and writing child progress reports

• 🤝 Supporting emotional, social, and language development

🌱 Step 5: Career Growth as a Preschool Teacher

This profession offers both emotional fulfillment and long-term career growth.

Career pathways include:

• Head Teacher / Curriculum Coordinator

• Kindergarten Principal / School Administrator

• Early Childhood Trainer / Lecturer

• International School Kindergarten Teacher

• Special Needs or Inclusive Education Facilitator

With growing demand for qualified educators, job stability and promotion opportunities continue to rise in this sector.

💬 Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need to Be Perfect to Start

You don’t need a degree in education to begin — you just need a passion for working with children, a willingness to learn, and the right training.

If you're:

• A student deciding on your next step

• A young adult seeking a meaningful career

• A working parent or adult learner ready to switch paths

Then preschool teaching could be the start of your most fulfilling journey.

• teaching with RPEL certification