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The Ministry of Education is reportedly planning to standardise school uniforms nationwide to eliminate significant colour variations between schools
Director-General of Education Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad told the Malay Mail that this initiative follows a comprehensive review involving multiple stakeholders that began in September last year.
He expressed concern that the wide variety of uniforms — some with more than seven colours — may inadvertently foster a sense of difference and competition among children rather than instilling a spirit of unity.
Beyond promoting unity, the move also aims to ease the practical and financial burdens faced by parents
Mohd Azam highlighted that complex uniform requirements, such as multiple T-shirts for different activities, blazers, and vests, create unnecessary costs and complicate school transfers for students.
He emphasised that cosmetic elements that do not improve educational outcomes should be avoided to keep schooling affordable.
The ministry, he said, is particularly mindful of families with multiple school-going children and the financial strain of preparing for new school terms.
A final decision on the new policy is expected by August 2026, with a phased implementation slated to begin in 2027 for Year One and Form One students
Mohd Azam noted that changes, such as the optional wearing of ties, will be rolled out gradually in consultation with parent-teacher associations.
The standardisation will also take into account practical factors such as student comfort in Malaysia's hot climate.
