How to choose a preschool or kindergarten in Malaysia (2026)
For children aged about 4 to 6, kindergartens (tadika) should be registered with the Ministry of Education and follow the national preschool standard curriculum; childcare centres (taska) for younger children are registered with the Social Welfare Department (JKM). Visit, watch how teachers interact with children, and check safety, hygiene and teacher qualifications. Fees are usually monthly with extra charges for registration, materials and meals.
Last updated 31 October 2026 · See the Top 10 preschools & kindergartens in Malaysia →
Typical costs in Malaysia (2026)
| Item | Typical range / basis |
|---|---|
| Monthly fee (half day) | Roughly RM300–RM1,000 |
| Monthly fee (full day) | Roughly RM600–RM2,000 |
| Registration and materials | One-off or annual |
| Meals and transport | Sometimes extra |
Editorial estimates from published rate cards and quotes. Always get written quotes.
Licence or registration to check
Kindergartens (tadika) are registered with MOE under the Education Act 1996; childcare centres (taska) are registered with JKM under the Child Care Centre Act 1984.
Checklist before you hire
- Check MOE registration for tadika or JKM registration for taska
- Visit during class time
- Ask about teacher qualifications and ratios
- Check safety, hygiene and fire exits
- Ask about the daily routine and curriculum
- Read fee and withdrawal terms
Questions to ask
- What is the teacher-to-child ratio?
- How do you handle illness and medicines?
- How do you communicate with parents?
- What does a typical day look like?
- Are staff trained in first aid?
Red flags
- No registration certificate
- Unsafe premises
- Unwilling to let parents visit
- Frequent staff changes
Top-ranked preschools & kindergartens right now
- Taska Tulip — Kuala Lumpur, category score 99
- Julia Gabriel Preschool — Kuala Lumpur, category score 70
- MindChamps PreSchool Adda Heights — Johor Bahru, category score 70
FAQ
Tadika or taska?
Taska is childcare for younger children; tadika is preschool education, usually from age 4.
Is preschool compulsory?
Not currently compulsory, but widely attended.
Are government preschools available?
Yes. MOE, KEMAS and other agencies run preschools with low fees.
Related guides
🏫 International schools 🏫 Private schools 🧩 Enrichment & coding classes 🎹 Music classes (piano, violin, guitar) 🖍️ Art & drawing classes 💃 Dance classes