KUANTAN, Aug 19 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Childcare Centre Association (PPJKKM) has proposed that the government introduce a start-up grant for newly registered childcare centres (PJKK) under the 2027 Budget.
Association founder and chairman Simon Ng said the proposal aims to help new childcare centre operators reduce initial costs while supporting the development of a more organised and professional registered childcare industry.
He said new operators face various expenses during the initial stages, including premises renovations, installation of fire safety equipment, learning facilities, as well as registration and administrative costs.
"This situation creates a heavy financial burden. If the government provides such a start-up grant, it could lower the barriers to establishing registered childcare centres," he said in a statement today.
He added that increasing the number of registered childcare centres would give parents more options for quality after-school care services, thereby easing childcare responsibilities and helping to reduce financial pressure on families, particularly those in the middle-income (M40) group.
“This initiative will enhance safety standards, the quality of the learning environment, and the monitoring of registered childcare centres, thereby strengthening parental confidence in these registered facilities,” he said.
Simon also urged the government to include the registered childcare industry as part of the education and family development support ecosystem when formulating the 2027 Budget, enabling the sector's growth through more comprehensive and targeted policies.
He said the proposed grant would not only support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the education services sector but also help ease the financial burden on families.
"It is a long-term investment that benefits children, families and the community, and it deserves positive consideration by the government," he said.
-- BERNAMA
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