Can I move my child from an international to a public school in Malaysia?

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Posted by

on 20 Nov 2014

I have heard that once my child has attended International School in Malaysia she cannot attend a local school. My personal circumstances may change dramatically in the near future. Is this correct and where can I find out the actual government stance on this? I am a UK expat, living in Malaysia and married to a local. Our daughter has a Malaysian passport.

Anonymous (not verified) on 20 Nov 2014 - 09:49

Hi, Pedro, I'm not aware of any such restrictions. However, you may want to take into account the following - 1) Whether your daughter will relocate to the UK prior to entering uni, where curriculum will be a key consideration; 2) Timing of your daughter's relocation to the UK and affordability of international schools, which may impact whether you would first start with a local school and transfer to an international school at a more senior grade; and 3) Politics and administration that would be involved for transferring to government schools (in addition to your daughter's adjustment to a different curriculum). If you need help with education consulting, I will be able to refer you to professionals who could help. Thanks!

Anonymous (not verified) on 20 Nov 2014 - 11:04

Thanks for your prompt reply and your response confirms my initial thoughts on the subject. It was really a planning exercise on when to return to the UK and needed the full facts before making the decision. Thanks again and all the best.

Anonymous (not verified) on 9 Jan 2015 - 04:48

Can my niece start her Primary education at a public school or private school? And will the child's mum be able to get a dependent pass during the period of the child's education until it is upon completion. Would appreciate your kind reply.

Anonymous (not verified) on 31 Dec 2014 - 15:04

Hi Pedro, Yes, your daughter can move from an international school to a public school in Malaysia. However, your daughter may need to take a local test that is required for all students at the age of 12 in public schools to enter secondary school called the UPSR(Primary School Evaluation Test). If you still have any questions, you can contact the Ministry of Education or the school itself.

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