SHAH ALAM – Education in Malaysia is entering a transformative decade with the introduction of the Malaysian Education Blueprint (Rancangan Pendidikan Malaysia, RPM) 2026–2035.
The plan sets out a long-term roadmap to ensure the national education system remains relevant, competitive and capable of developing well-rounded individuals ready to face the challenges of tomorrow.
With a clear focus on quality, access, equity, availability, efficiency of resources and sustainability, the Education Ministry (MoE) believes education is the pulse of the nation.
In a rapidly evolving world driven by technology, artificial intelligence and global shifts in the workforce, education is no longer solely about the transfer of knowledge. It forms the foundation for personal growth, resilience and the wellbeing of future generations.
“RPM 2026–2035 reflects the nation’s commitment to building an education system that is not only academically excellent but also capable of shaping well-rounded individuals and global citizens,” the ministry said in a statement.
Acknowledging these realities, the ministry has designed RPM 2026–2035 as a strategic framework to ensure Malaysia’s education system remains relevant, dynamic, inclusive and globally competitive.
The plan is guided by the National Education Philosophy, with the vision of “Quality Education, Educated Individuals, Prosperous Nation” and a mission to sustain a high-quality system that nurtures each individual’s potential in line with the country’s aspirations.
“RPM 2026–2035 goes beyond academic achievement by emphasising the holistic development of students encompassing character, emotional intelligence, skills and human values.
“The strategy also aims to close education gaps while raising overall standards, ensuring that every child, regardless of socio-economic background or location, benefits from a high-quality learning experience,” the statement added.
At its core, the blueprint champions inclusivity and equity, ensuring that no student is left behind.
To achieve these goals, RPM 2026–2035 is structured around seven strategic pillars:
- Ensuring Malaysia’s education system is inclusive, dynamic and relevant
- Optimising every student’s potential through meaningful learning experiences to develop global citizens
- Transforming educators into highly capable and future-oriented professionals
- Strengthening physical and digital infrastructure across all educational institutions under MoE
- Enhancing synergy among educational institutions and stakeholders
- Embedding sustainability within the education ecosystem
- Improving governance efficiency and delivery systems.
Under the seven strategic pillars, the blueprint emphasises meaningful learning experiences to nurture students as global citizens, including curriculum reforms to strengthen literacy, numeracy, STEM education and creative talents.
Teachers are empowered as key agents of change through continuous professional development, reduced administrative burdens and greater focus on high-quality teaching and character building. In the fourth strategic pillar, schools will be upgraded with modern facilities, high-speed digital infrastructure and smart learning technologies, including artificial intelligence.
Collaboration is also central to RPM 2026 – 2035 as stated in the fifth strategic pillar. By strengthening partnerships with parents, communities, the private sector and industry, the ministry aims to provide inclusive support and resources to nurture every student’s potential.
The plan also places emphasis on embedding sustainability through the development of character, values and everyday practices within the education community. Moving towards sustainable development requires every student to be literate and able to understand, analyse and act on issues at both local and global levels.
The impact of RPM 2026–2035 is expected to be far-reaching. Students will experience a more balanced and relevant learning journey, teachers will feel empowered and recognised, and schools will function as modern, safe and inclusive centres of learning.
Education is positioned not merely as a policy agenda, but as a long-term investment in producing knowledgeable, skilled, well-mannered and resilient citizens — supporting Malaysia’s goal of becoming a prosperous and competitive nation.
The success of RPM 2026–2035 depends on collective commitment from the government, educators, parents, communities and the private sector. With broad support, the blueprint is poised to transform the country’s education landscape into one that is progressive, inclusive and sustainable.
The launch of the National Education Plan (Rancangan Pendidikan Negara, RPN) 2026–2035 is a testament to the government's commitment in executing a strategic roadmap covering the entire education system from schools to universities through the RPM bind the Rancangan Pendidikan Tinggi Malaysia (RPTM) .
The launch, led by MoE and the Higher Education Ministry (MoHE), took place at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC) on Jan 20, reflecting the country’s commitment to an inclusive and globally competitive education system.
The plan highlights future-ready talent development by integrating technology and artificial intelligence to prepare students and researchers for a rapidly evolving world.
By aligning school and higher education strategies, the RPN ensures a seamless approach to nurturing skilled, resilient and values-driven individuals capable of contributing meaningfully to Malaysia’s progress.