KUALA LUMPUR – The Ujian Pencapaian Sekolah Rendah (UPSR) and Pentaksiran Tingkatan Tiga (PT3) examinations will not be reinstated, according to Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, who emphasised that the focus is now on the Malaysian Learning Metrics (MLM) for Year Four and Form Three students.
Speaking after the launch of the National Education Plan 2026-2035, which was officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Fadhlina explained that the ministry's goal is to develop a more comprehensive and holistic assessment system, local media reported.
"We cannot go backwards. We need to look ahead, and that means we cannot bring back UPSR or PT3," Fadhlina stated. "These examinations are no longer suitable for the current generation."
Since the abolition of the UPSR in 2021 and PT3 in 2022, the debate surrounding their potential return has persisted.
On January 9, Fadhlina had suggested that the exams might be reconsidered following a review by the national education advisory council. However, she reaffirmed today that the ministry would not be reviving the exams.
"The priority now is to focus on classroom-based assessments," she said. "This approach allows us to assess children’s potential in a holistic manner, not just based on exam results."
The Malaysian Learning Metrics, which will be introduced for Year Four and Form Three students, is expected to provide a more rounded evaluation of students' abilities. The system will be administered by the Examinations Board to ensure uniformity and consistency.
"The results from this new assessment system will help identify students who may need additional support or interventions before they progress to the next level," Fadhlina added.
The initiative aims to ensure that students receive timely help to address any learning gaps, particularly in their formative years. According to the minister, Year Four was chosen as the starting point for the new system to give educators enough time to make interventions and strengthen learning before students advance further in their education.
"This approach is about intervention, reinforcement, and support for the new curriculum," Fadhlina concluded. - January 20, 2025
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