Preliminary-Blueprint-Eng

3-23
Diversity of schools in malaysian education
The Malaysian education system comprises over 20 schooling
options at both the primary and secondary levels (Exhibit 3-29).
Public primary schools. The primary level comprises three main
types of schools: SK, SJK(C), and SJK(T). Each type of school is
defined by different mediums of instruction and jointly accounts
for almost 99% of total primary enrolments. In addition, there are
numerous school types serving niche groups, such as religious
(Islamic) and special education schools.
Public secondary schools. The secondary school system is
marked by the convergence of most students from the different
types of primary schools into a single school format. These
EXHIBIT 3-29
Population and enrolment by ethnic group
%, 2010 - 2011
Malaysia
25
7
1
67
Primary
schools
Secondary
schools
National secondary schools (SMK) are taught in Bahasa Malaysia.
SMKs comprise 88% of total secondary enrolments. A small but
growing percentage of students also opt for alternative schools
such as religious schools. Upon completion of lower secondary
school (Form 3), students also have a choice to pursue alternate
pathways at technical, vocational, sports, arts, and other schooling
options.
Private schools. A small but growing number of students enrol
in private schools. These schools operate at both the primary
and secondary level and include private schools that teach the
national curriculum, international schools, religious schools, and
Independent Chinese schools. Currently, private schools comprise
1% of total primary enrolments and 4% of total secondary
enrolments.
Bumiputera
Chinese
SOURCE: Malaysia Education Statistics (2011); Population Distribution and Demographic Characteristics 2010 (Statistics
Department)
6
19 2
20
7
1
72
72
SK
SJK(C)
SJK(T)
Indian
Others
SABK – SR
SMK
SMKA /
SABK - SM
>80% enrolment by
one ethnic group
2
1
3
94
1
9
2
88
100
100
7
22 1
100
72