Malaysian mother draws attention after enrolling three-year-old son in Islamic preschool
A Malaysian mother’s decision to enrol her three-year-old son in an Islamic preschool has sparked widespread discussion online, drawing both praise for promoting cultural exposure and criticism from those questioning her choice of education.
- A Chinese Malaysian mother enrolled her three-year-old son in an Islamic preschool in Johor as a temporary childcare arrangement.
- Her decision has sparked mixed reactions online, including criticism and praise for cultural openness.
- She defended her choice, saying the experience has benefited her son socially and linguistically.
MALAYSIA: A mother in Malaysia has attracted public attention after enrolling her three-year-old son in an Islamic preschool, a move that has sparked debate across social media.
The woman, Chan Zhu Er, 31, enrolled her son, Low Zi Kang, at Pusat Asuhan Tunas Islam (PASTI) in Chaah, Johor, in November last year.
At the time, she had returned to her hometown to attend to personal matters, while her husband remained in Perak, according to local reports.
Viral TikTok Videos Spark Debate
Chan frequently shares videos of her son — affectionately known as “Kang Kang” — on TikTok.
In the clips, the toddler can be seen wearing a green school uniform, smiling cheerfully, greeting viewers and participating in school activities.
“Even though he has only been studying for three months, he can already say several Malay words, and sometimes he can even sing in Malay. I can see that he is happy at school,” Chan said.
However, the videos also triggered criticism from some netizens, who questioned why she chose an Islamic school instead of a Chinese-medium institution.
Mother Responds to Criticism
Chan said she received private messages expressing disapproval of her decision, with some containing harsh remarks. Despite this, she said the criticism would not change her mind.
“I don’t care, because the teachers at PASTI Chaah are really good. I think it’s good that children can learn about other cultures,” she said, adding that her mother still lives in Chaah.
Practical Reasons Behind the Choice
Chan explained that enrolling her son at the Islamic preschool was initially meant to be a temporary childcare solution while she handled her commitments.
“Chaah is a small town with only a few preschools, and most of them only accept children aged four and above,” she explained. “After asking around, this was the only place willing to take my son.”
She also felt it would be beneficial for her child to interact with children from different backgrounds and to learn Bahasa Malaysia at an early age.
Looking Ahead
Chan expressed appreciation for the teachers’ attentiveness and care, saying her son has adapted well to the environment.
She shared that she and her son would return to Perak in February to celebrate the Lunar New Year, and that she is set to begin a new teaching job at a kindergarten there in March.
“Thank you to everyone who supported us and left kind messages,” Chan said. “I hope that all races in Malaysia can live together in a harmonious environment.”
