Datuk Dr. Habibah, representing SEAMEO Secretariat, and Datuk Haji Ruji bin Haji Ubi from the Ministry of Malaysia officially signed the Memorandum of Understanding to solidify collaboration on the SEA-PLM program.

On November 27, 2024, a significant milestone was achieved with the ceremonial signing of an agreement between the SEAMEO Secretariat and the Ministry of Education, Malaysia, reaffirming their collaboration on the Southeast Asia Primary Learning Metrics (SEA-PLM) program, particularly on the conduct of SEA-PLM 2024. Representing the SEAMEO Secretariat during the ceremonial signing, Datuk Dr. Habibah forged this commitment alongside the Ministry of Education, Malaysia, solidifying a shared vision of improving foundational learning and advancing basic education in the region. This symbolic event was hosted by the SEAMEO Secretariat during the 47th SEAMEO High Officials Meeting, held from November 26 to 27. The 47th SEAMEO High Officials Meeting brought together high-ranking delegates from Ministries of Education and partner organizations across Southeast Asia. This gathering provided an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in addressing SEAMEO’s priority areas over the past year and to chart the path forward for strengthened collaboration in education, science, and culture.

Delegates gather during the 47th SEAMEO High Officials Meeting to discuss progress and strategies in advancing education, science, and culture across the region

Malaysia, as one of the six countries that participated in the inaugural SEA-PLM survey in 2019 reaffirmed its dedication to advancing evidence-based educational policies through sustained monitoring of student learning outcomes. The collaboration between SEA-PLM and Malaysia demonstrates a commitment to leveraging large-scale assessments as a cornerstone of effective policymaking. SEA-PLM surveys aim to provide robust data that support the government in formulating evidence-driven strategies to improve learning outcomes and bridge educational gaps. This ongoing partnership reflects a shared determination to tackle the challenges in the education sector and ensure that every child in Southeast Asia receives a quality and equitable primary education. 

As Malaysia and SEAMEO embark on this renewed journey, the agreement signifies a deepened collaboration to harness data, insights, and regional cooperation to achieve transformative educational improvements. The outcomes of SEA-PLM 2024 are anticipated to provide invaluable insights that will guide national and regional education strategies, further solidifying the program’s role in shaping the future of learning in Southeast Asia.