Transforming Minds: A Comprehensive Analysis of Malaysia's National Curriculum Framework and Its Impact on 21st Century Educational Outcomes
Keywords:
Malaysian education system, curriculum reform, STEM education, 21st century skills, educational policy, pedagogical transformationAbstract
This study examines the evolution and implementation of Malaysia's national education curriculum, focusing on its alignment with contemporary educational demands and global competitiveness standards. Through systematic analysis of curriculum documents, policy frameworks, and educational outcomes, this research investigates how Malaysia's curriculum addresses the challenges of preparing students for the digital economy while maintaining cultural identity and social cohesion. The findings reveal that Malaysia's curriculum has undergone significant transformations, particularly through the implementation of the Standard Curriculum for Primary Schools and the Standard Curriculum for Secondary Schools, which emphasize higher-order thinking skills, STEM education, and 21st century competencies. However, challenges persist in implementation consistency, teacher preparedness, and resource allocation across urban and rural contexts. This study contributes to understanding curriculum reform processes in developing nations and offers insights into balancing modernization with cultural preservation in educational systems.
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