In an effort to improve early childhood education in the state, the Johor government has set aside RM1.5 million to upgrade tabika (kindergartens) and taska (childcare centres) run by the Community Development Department.
Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi, Johor Menteri Besar, stated that the state government has also allocated RM1.8 million in basic religious funds for the Iqra’ and Fardu Ain (IQFA) programmes.
He also mentioned that KEMAS kindergartens are now being positioned as feeder institutions for Sekolah Rintis Bangsa Johor (SRBJ).
“However, this necessitates curriculum alignment, including elements of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) – a transformation that will raise Johor’s preschool education to a higher and more competitive level,” said Onn Hafiz.
Meanwhile, he stated that the Tunku Mahkota Ismail Youth Centre (TMIYC) in Renggam, Kluang, is currently under active development.
“I had the opportunity to review TMIYC Renggam’s progress and meet with representatives from youth groups, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), and local sports activists.
“This youth centre is being actively developed in line with the aspirations of the Regent of Johor, Tunku Mahkota Ismail Sultan Ibrahim, to ensure that every district has facilities that serve as spaces for building the character, leadership, and potential of Johor’s youth,” he said, noting that three TMIYCs are already operational in the state.
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