KUCHING: Kindergartens in urban areas can still deliver quality early childhood education by creatively incorporating nature-based and experiential learning, even if space is limited, said Women, Early Childhood, and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah.
She acknowledged that land scarcity remains a major hurdle for city-based preschools.
However, she stressed that teachers can adapt by establishing small green corners or organising field trips to natural environments.
“In city areas, getting land is difficult. But teachers can make do with small corners, maybe a patch to plant corn or to do composting.
“Even that can go a long way in inculcating important soft skills,” she said when met by reporters at the soft opening of Little Cottage today.
Fatimah noted that the ministry allows flexibility for teachers to conduct lessons outside the classroom through visits and excursions, providing children with hands-on, nature-based learning opportunities.
“This is where the ministry allows flexibility. Teachers can bring children outside for visits, or partner with centres like this for learning opportunities.
“And if Little Cottage is open to visitors, other kindergartens can come and see how this model works,” she added.
Fatimah also praised the inclusion of small animals such as rabbits in the learning environment, stating that pets can play a therapeutic role for children, particularly those from emotionally challenging backgrounds.
“Even small things have meaning, a rabbit or a fish can help calm a child emotionally. Everything here serves a function in a child’s development. It’s a holistic model,” she said.
She emphasised that experiential learning not only builds knowledge but also cultivates values such as compassion, responsibility and environmental awareness from an early age.
On a broader level, Fatimah said Sarawak’s early childhood education sector has made encouraging progress over the past five years, particularly in ensuring access for all children.
She revealed that 98 per cent of children entering Primary One in the state have already gone through preschool education, which she described as a major achievement.
“When we established the Majlis Pembangunan Awal Kanak-Kanak and a dedicated unit under the ministry, the momentum for progress picked up.
“Today, 98 per cent of Primary One children have gone through preschool,” she said.
She added that public perception of preschool teachers has also evolved, with more people recognising their role in laying strong educational and moral foundations for young learners.
“People now recognise that preschool teachers are crucial.
“They lay the foundation, not just for literacy, but also for values and life skills,” she said.
Fatimah also highlighted inclusivity as the ministry’s next major focus, ensuring that children with disabilities are not left out of the early education system.
“Children with disabilities must have the same opportunity.
“We are working with various preschools such as Sedidik and KEMAS to make sure inclusive education is implemented,” she said.
She explained that achieving this would require more trained and qualified teachers who are able to cater to the different needs of all children, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities.
