Education Ministry opens private schools sector to all investors, no more 30pc Bumi rule

Education Ministry opens private schools sector to all investors, no more 30pc Bumi rule



The MOE says the removal of the 30 per cent Bumiputera equity is to meet the current needs of the education sector and ensure participation remains open to all parties wishing to contribute to the nation’s educational development. — Unsplash pic


Summary

• The Ministry of Education in Malaysia has removed the requirement for private limited companies operating private educational institutions to maintain a minimum of 30% Bumiputera equity ownership.
• This decision was made in collaboration with the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry to address the current needs of the education sector and encourage broader participation in educational development.
• The Ministry acknowledges the concerns previously associated with this requirement and remains committed to collaborating with stakeholders to enhance Malaysian children's education.

First Published: Tuesday, 22 Sep 2026 9:02 AM MYT


PUTRAJAYA, Sept 22 — A minimum of 30 per cent Bumiputera equity ownership is no longer a requirement for private limited companies operating private educational institutions (IPS) under the Ministry of Education (MOE).

The ministry said the decision was reached following discussions with the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry.

“This adjustment was made to meet the current needs of the education sector and ensure participation remains open to all parties wishing to contribute to the nation’s educational development,” MOE said in a statement yesterday.

The ministry noted the concerns raised regarding the 30 per cent Bumiputera equity requirement for specific IPS owned by private limited companies, as outlined in the IPS Policy Statement Book published in 2006.

It added that it appreciates the contributions of all IPS operators and will continue working with all stakeholders to benefit the education of Malaysian children. — Bernama