M'sian Secondary School Dropout Rate Is Going Down & It's More Important Than You Think
The dropout rate went down to as low as 0.64% in 2024.
Published for Ministry of Education Malaysia, 10 Feb 2025, 10:24 AM
In Malaysia, the number of dropouts at the secondary school level are decreasing
Speaking at the Dewan Rakyat in March last year, Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh revealed that the dropout rate among secondary secondary school students had reduced from 1.36% in 2017 to 0.64% in 2024.
While there still remains a minor trend of high school students opting not to complete their SPM examinations, this overall development represents a hugely positive development for the nation.
1. We move closer to breaking the cycle of poverty
According to the World Bank, every additional year of schooling can increase a person's earnings by up to 10%.
This makes staying in school a wise financial decision in the long run compared to dropping out to find a job early.
When students complete secondary school and earn their Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM), they gain access to better-paying jobs or scholarships for higher education. Over time, this helps reduce economic pressure on families and breaks the generational cycle of poverty.
2. It gives young Malaysians better career opportunities
The SPM qualification is often referred to as a ticket to better prospects. Without it, students face barriers in accessing universities, vocational training programmes, or even entry-level jobs in the formal sector, as evidenced by the minimum requirement of an SPM cert for civil service jobs.
Experts have stressed that obtaining an SPM cert is absolutely necessary for maintaining sustainable income. For teens aiming for a brighter future, staying in school to obtain this critical qualification is non-negotiable.
3. The nation's economy will benefit
When more students complete their education, Malaysia benefits from a skilled and educated workforce. This is crucial for meeting the demands of a modern economy.
A global study published in 2023 revealed that higher levels of education completion — as measured by an education index — are strongly linked to increased economic growth. Specifically, a small increase in the education index leads to a notable rise in real gross domestic product (GDP) per capita.
4. The Malaysian society will experience forward growth as well
Beyond academics, school is also where students develop essential life skills. From communication and teamwork to critical thinking and time management, these skills are indispensable for navigating adulthood.
A social study published in 2023 directly investigated social skills development in secondary school students. The research found that secondary students are actively developing crucial social skills, such as communication, cooperation, and critical thinking.
These traits are not only highly valued by employers and essential for success in further education and the workplace, but also crucial to the development of a forward-thinking society.
While the decline in secondary school dropouts is promising, there still remains work to be done
The decreasing dropout rate is a positive sign, but efforts must continue to ensure every student completes their education. Challenges such as financial difficulties, distance and transport to school, and the need for stronger support systems persist, which must all be addressed.
At the national level, the Education Ministry will continue to prioritise inclusive policies, such as financial aid and targeted support programmes, to keep students in school. Meanwhile, parents and teachers can also play a crucial role in encouraging their children to stay committed to education.
By addressing these remaining barriers, Malaysia can build a future where all teens have the opportunity to unlock their full potential through education.
To learn more about how the Education Ministry is working to keep Malaysian students in school, you can visit this website
