THE cornerstone of a truly successful nation in the 21st century characterised by the emergence of a knowledge-based economy is undoubtedly its human capital, which, in turn, is greatly shaped by its education system. As aptly stated by American political economist Lester Thurow, “In the twenty-first century the education and skills of the work force will be the dominant competitive weapon”.
Hence, a high-performing school system is crucial for transforming Malaysia into a high-income and sustainable economy. We also need to empower and “future proof” young Malaysians to thrive in the rapidly changing and disruptive workplace of the future that will be the result of the fourth industrial revolution.