KUCHING: Parents have expressed mixed views following the government’s decision to reinstate a centralised national assessment for Year Four pupils starting this year, with some welcoming it as an early intervention tool while others fear added pressure on young learners.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that the assessment, administered by the Examinations Board, signals the return of the Malaysian learning matrix system.
The move is aimed at strengthening pupils’ academic foundations and identifying learning gaps earlier, instead of waiting until Year Six.
Under the revised framework, Year Four pupils will be assessed in four core subjects — Bahasa Melayu, English, Mathematics and Science — with immediate implementation.
Some parents see the move as timely. Jacqueline Susan Rijeng, 40, described the assessment as a positive step in preparing children for an increasingly competitive education landscape.
“Education today is very competitive and this helps create early awareness among parents and students about its importance. With proper guidance, Year Four pupils are capable of developing strong learning habits, so this feels like an appropriate time,” she said.
She added that while learning gaps can be identified at any stage, doing so earlier offers clear advantages. “At Year Four, students are already able to think, reason and express themselves better. Early assessment allows timely intervention, especially since they still have two years left in primary school.”
Acknowledging concerns about pressure, Jacqueline said challenges are part of growing up. “We are never truly ready, but it’s important to take the first step, provide support and go with the flow.”
Others, however, are less convinced. Stephenie Lim, 42, said the assessment comes too soon for children who are still adjusting to upper primary.
“Year Four students are only at a transition stage, moving from Level 1 to Level 2. They have just begun learning at this level, yet they are already required to sit for an examination,” she said.
Citing her own child’s confusion about the assessment, she added, “As a mother, I am worried and do not agree with the implementation of this examination at this stage. I hope the government will reconsider or introduce a more suitable approach to help students prepare.”
Taking a more balanced view, Amira Syakira Abd Razak, 36, said the assessment could be beneficial if used correctly.
“The decision can help strengthen early academic foundations, provided it is used as a diagnostic tool rather than a high-stakes examination.
“Assessing pupils at this stage may help identify learning gaps earlier, allowing timely intervention,” she said.
However, she cautioned that safeguards are needed. “Care must be taken to ensure the assessment does not place undue pressure on young learners. With a balanced approach, strong teacher support and clear communication to parents, it can support learning without compromising children’s well-being.”
Meanwhile, Mohd Ezhuanizar Abdul Zaini, 38, said his daughter is still adjusting to the expanded curriculum at Year Four, which now includes subjects such as History, Design & Technology and English Literature.
“School has just started and she is still adapting, but I hope she will gradually adjust and cope well with the learning demands,” he said. “Overall, this learning matrix gives a helpful overview of her current adjustment and learning progress.”
