Selangor to streamline regulations on care centres

THE Selangor government is initiating reforms to streamline and standardise regulations governing all types of care centres.

State women and family empowerment, welfare and care economy committee chairman Anfaal Saari said the government is aware that some kindergarten and daycare operators face difficulties registering because of existing legislation and regulations.

“Following engagement sessions conducted with stakeholders, the state government realises that this issue is not only faced by kindergartens and daycares but also experienced by elderly care centres, and centres for persons with disabilities and other care services," she said in her winding-up speech during the state assembly meeting on Wednesday (July 10).

She said the government is exploring solutions for all types of care centres, including through the consolidation and standardisation of regulations under the state's jurisdiction, such as local authority by-laws.

“The government, in collaboration with the State Legal Advisor's Chambers, is undertaking the review, evaluation, and enhancement of the existing regulations in force.

“The state is also exploring strategies to enhance the quality of care workers, including offering micro-credential courses targeted at home caregivers as well as operators and teachers in kindergartens and daycares," she added.

On the issue of children falling behind or being left out in early education, Anfaal said initiatives such as the Kindergarten Assistance Programme (Tunas) and the Smart Care Programme provide fee subsidies to ensure that children from low-income families do not miss out.