Step-by-Step Guide to Preschool Registration 2026 Academic Session

Eisya Ereena
March 04, 2025
7 min

Just yesterday, it felt like you were in the hospital, carefully strapping your newborn into the car seat for the first ride home.

In the blink of an eye, those tiny hands have grown, and now it’s time to prepare for preschool registration.

For many parents, this marks a huge milestone - one filled with excitement, anticipation, and maybe even a little anxiety.

After all, preschool is often a child’s first step into structured learning, independence, and social interaction.

But where do you even begin?

With different preschool options, registration deadlines, and required documents, the process can feel overwhelming.

The good news? You’re not alone.

This step-by-step guide will help you understand the preschool system, gather the necessary documents, and successfully register your child.

So, when the first day of school arrives, both you and your little one will be ready to take on this new adventure!

MOE Preschools - Application Process and Required Documents

Image credit: Ministry of Education Malaysia

Before applying for a MOE preschool (Tadika KPM), parents must ensure their child meets the eligibility criteria:

• Malaysian citizen


• Born between 2 January 2020 and 15 January 2022


• Only one school selection per application

Parents can choose to apply via two methods:

• Online via the ePrasekolah portal (1 March 2023 – 30 April 2025)


• Manual submission at the selected school (1 March 2023 – 31 May 2025)

Step-by-Step Guide for Online Applications (ePrasekolah)

1. Visit the Official Website

• Go to ePrasekolah.


• For the best experience, use Google Chrome as your web browser.

2. Register as a New User

• If you are a first-time user, create an ePrasekolah account.


• Log in using your registered ID and password.

3. Access the Preschool Application Form

• Click on ‘Borang Permohonan Prasekolah’ to start the application process.

Image credit: Ministry of Education Malaysia

Image credit: Ministry of Education Malaysia

Image credit: Ministry of Education Malaysia

Image credit: Ministry of Education Malaysia

Image credit: Ministry of Education Malaysia

4. Complete the Application Form

• Fill in all necessary details, including child’s information, parents' details, and contact information.


• Select one preschool for your application.

Image credit: Ministry of Education Malaysia

5. Verify and Submit the Application:

• Review all information entered before submitting. Ensure that details are accurate.

Image credit: Ministry of Education Malaysia

6. Print the Submitted Application Form

• Once submitted, print a hard copy of the application.

7. Submit Printed Form and Required Documents

• The printed application form, along with supporting documents, must be submitted to the selected preschool by 31 May 2025.

Step-by-Step Guide for Manual Applications

1. Obtain the Application Form

•  Print the application form online and submit it manually or collect and complete the form directly at the centre before submission.

2. Complete the Form

• Fill in all required details accurately.

3. Prepare Required Documents

• Child’s birth certificate (original and copy)


• Updated immunisation record


• Copies of both parents’ MyKad (ICs)


• Recent passport-sized photographs of the child (2-4 copies)


• Proof of residence (e.g. utility bill)


• Payslips of parents

4. Submit the Completed Form

• Hand in the completed application form and documents to the selected preschool before 31 May 2025.

Checking Application Results

Image credit: Ministry of Education Malaysia

Image credit: Ministry of Education Malaysia

Image credit: Ministry of Education Malaysia

Image credit: Ministry of Education Malaysia

After submission, parents can check the application results from 5 August 2025 through the following methods:

• Online via ePrasekolah - Log in to ePrasekolah to check the status.


• Manual Check at the Applied Preschool - Visit the preschool where the application was submitted.

Appeal Process for Unsuccessful Applications

Image credit: Ministry of Education Malaysia

If an application is unsuccessful, parents can submit an appeal within two weeks after the results are announced.

1. Online Appeals

• Submit an appeal via ePrasekolah.


• Appeal results can be checked online from 10 September 2025.

2. Manual Appeals

• Parents who applied manually can submit an appeal directly at the preschool, the District Education Office (PPD), or the State Education Department (JPN) (for states without a PPD/PPW (Territory Education Office)).


• The school will notify parents if their appeal is successful.

Tabika Kemas - Application Process and Required Documents

Tabika Kemas is a government-funded preschool under the Ministry of Rural Development (KEMAS).

It provides early childhood education for children in rural and suburban communities.

Application Process for Tabika Kemas

1. Check Eligibility

• Tabika Kemas accepts children between ages of four to six years old.


• Parents should check with the nearest Tabika Kemas centre for registration dates (varies by location).

2. Obtain and Complete the Registration Form

• Registration is done manually at the nearest Tabika Kemas centre.


• Parents can either print the application form online and submit it manually or collect and complete the form directly at the centre before submission.

3. Submit the Required Documents

• Child’s birth certificate (original and copy)


• Parents' MyKad (IC) copies


• Updated immunisation record


• Recent passport-sized photographs of the child (2-4 copies)


• Household income statement (for fee subsidies, if applicable)

4. Wait for Approval and Confirmation

• The preschool will review applications and notify parents about admission status.


• If accepted, parents will receive further instructions for school enrolment.

5. Prepare for the First Day of Preschool

• Purchase any required school materials, including uniforms and books.


• Follow any additional guidelines provided by the Tabika Kemas centre.

3. Private Preschools - Application Process and Required Documents

Private preschools offer a variety of teaching methods, such as Montessori, play-based learning, and religious-based education.

Fees vary depending on the school’s facilities, location, and programme offerings.

Application Process for Private Preschools

1. Research and Select a Preschool

• Parents should consider factors such as curriculum, fees, teacher qualifications, class size, and school environment.


• It is advisable to visit the preschool, attend an open day, or arrange a trial class.

2. Check Registration Dates & Submit an Application

• Unlike government preschools, private schools have different enrolment periods. Some allow rolling admissions, while others require early registration (up to a year in advance).


• Some private preschools allow online applications, while others require in-person submission.

3. Provide Required Documents

• Child’s birth certificate (original and copy)


• Updated immunisation record


• Parents' MyKad (IC) copies


• Recent passport-sized photographs of the child (2-4 copies)


• Proof of residence


• Additional documents (if required by the preschool)

4. Attend an Interview or Assessment

• Some private preschools conduct interviews or readiness tests to assess the child’s development.


• The school may require parent meetings to discuss expectations and educational approaches.

5. Confirm Admission and Pay Fees

• Once accepted, parents must pay registration fees and deposits to secure their child’s place.


• The school will provide details about uniforms, books, and other requirements.

6. Get Ready for Preschool

• Help your child adjust by practising school routines, encouraging independence, and talking positively about school.

Confirm Placement and Prepare for the School Year

Once admission is confirmed to your selected schools, parents may need to pay registration fees or submit additional documents.

Some preschools also provide a school kit or a list of required items such as uniforms, books, and supplies.

To prepare a child for preschool:

• Introduce them to a routine similar to a school schedule, including wake-up times and meal timings.


• Talk to them about school in a positive way to reduce anxiety.


• Encourage independence by teaching them basic self-care skills like using the toilet, washing hands, and putting on shoes.

By following these steps, parents can navigate the preschool registration process smoothly and ensure a positive start to their child’s early education journey.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

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For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

Standard 1 2026 Academic Session: How to Register Your Child

Zakwan Shah
March 04, 2025
5 min
Attention, parents!

The 2026 Academic Session registration for Standard 1 students is now available.

From 1 March 2025 to 30 April 2025, the Ministry of Education is opening nationwide applications for children of school-going age born between 2 January 2019 to 1 January 2020.

This registration period is important for parents enrolling their kids to the public school system for the first time.



It ensures they are placed in schools near your area for convenience, and also to update any important information that is necessary for their enrollment.

Wondering how to register and where to go? Don't worry, everything is online now.

Here are the instructions on how to register your child for Standard 1.

For First-Time Applicants

If you haven’t created your idME account, sign up first.:

1. Click on 'Daftar Baru' for users who do not have an account.


2. Please fill in all the information in the provided fields. Information marked with an asterisk (*) is mandatory to be filled in.


3. Tick the checkbox and enter the captcha code in the field provided.


4. Click on the 'Daftar' button to submit the user’s information, or click on the ‘Reset’ button to reset the user’s information.

Note: Successfully registered users need to check their email to get their default password. Then, log in to the system using the default password provided, and change the password to a new one.

Before making the application you need to do the following:

1. Create a profile for yourself.


2. Next, for your spouse and your child.


3. Afterwards, follow the next steps below.

How to Register Your Child for Standard 1

Log In and Update Details

1. Go to https://idme.moe.gov.my/. Both Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox are acceptable browsers.

2. Click on 'Aplikasi' on the left side of the webpage.



3. Click on 'Pengurusan Awam'. You will be directed to the official MOEIS site.

4. On the left side of the dashboard, you will find 'Pengurusan Profil'. Click on this. Next, complete the fields for each of the drop down options.

5. Click on 'Maklumat Peribadi' and fill in your own details. Then, click on ‘Maklumat Pasangan' and fill in your spouse's details.



6.  Once you're done with both, click on 'Simpan' at the bottom of the page.

7. After you've done that, do the same for your child. Click on ‘Maklumat Anak Jagaan' and fill in the details required.



8. If your child's name is not on the list, click on 'Tambah Anak/Jagaan' to create a profile for them.

9. Fill in the fields with the correct details and click 'Simpan' at the bottom of the page once done.

Make the Application

Once you’ve updated the profiles, now it’s time to put in your child’s official application for Standard 1!

There are four steps in total in the online registration process: 'Semakan Profil', 'Pilihan Sekolah', 'Dokumen Sokongan' and 'Perakuan'. Fill in all of these to complete your application.

1. Click on ‘Permohonan Kemasukan' on the dashboard, and then on the 'Rendah Tahap 1' link.



2. You will be redirected to another tab 'Permohonan Tahun Satu KPM''.

3. On the bottom right, click on 'Mohon'.



4. Click 'Seterusnya'. You will be directed to the registration window.

5. Under 'Semakan Profil', make sure all the details (name, address, IC number, etc) are correct. Then, click on 'Seterusnya'.



6. Under 'Pilihan Sekolah', fill in the district, postcode, area and the school of your choice. Then, click 'Seterusnya'.



7. Under 'Dokumen Sokongan', you will need to upload the supporting documents in PDF format: parents’ payslip, parents’ IC, MySejahtera certificate or vaccination card, and marriage certificate. After that, click on 'Seterusnya'.



8. Under 'Perakuan', tick the box that says 'Saya mengaku…' and then click on 'Hantar'.



9. Next, click on 'Cetak Permohonan'. Print two copies for the final registration. You will also need to print two other documents 'Borang Pemeriksaan Kesihatan' and 'Borang Rawatan Pergigiani'. These are provided under 'Cetak Borang'.

10. You’ve successfully completed the online registration!

Wait for the results (it’s not announced yet) and the name of your child’s new school will be given.

Physical Registration and Supporting Documents

After you have completed the online registration for Standard 1 as highlighted above, print out the registration form.

The name of your child’s school will be given on the document.

This is where you must go and send in the registration.

Bring the following supporting documents along during the physical registration process:

1. Registration Form (2 copies)


2. Health Service Approval and Immunisation Form with parent’s signature (original)


3. Child’s Birth Certificate (original and 1 copy)


4. Father’s Identification Card/Passport (original and 1 copy)


5. Mother’s Identification Card/Passport (original and 1 copy)


6. Marriage/Divorce Certificate, if applicable (original and 1 copy)


7. Court Order/Custody Letter, if applicable (original and 1 copy)


8. Latest Utility Bill/Electricity Bill (original or 1 copy)


9. Rental Agreement, if applicable (1 copy)


10. Child’s Immunisation Record with Injection Dates (1 copy)


11. Health Documents/OKU Information, if applicable (original and 1 copy)

Register Your Kids for Standard 1 Today, Parents!

For those parents who are just enrolling their kids into the public school system this year, these instructions will hopefully smoothen the process.

It is always important to take things slow and ensure that all the details are correct before you send out the submission.

And don't forget if you do not like school that is assigned to your child, you can always apply for a change.

With that said, good luck mums and dads during the Standard 1 registration process. Be sure to do it soon ahead of the deadline!

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

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For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

Columbia Asia Hospital - Petaling Jaya Awarded 'Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative' Gold Plaque by The Ministry of Health Malaysia

Eisya Ereena
March 03, 2025
2 min

Nature’s Finest: NatureLab Tokyo Debuts in Malaysia

Eisya Ereena
March 03, 2025
4 min
NatureLab Tokyo, the renowned Japanese haircare brand founded in 2017, has made its long-anticipated arrival on Malaysian shores.

Known for its unique blend of nature and cutting-edge science, the brand offers a carefully curated line of clean, sustainable, and innovative haircare products designed to cater to diverse hair and scalp needs. 

With its proprietary botanical technology, NatureLab Tokyo harnesses the benefits of nutrient- and antioxidant-rich plant stem cells, leveraging their regenerative qualities to address hair issues at a cellular level while also being phthalate-, paraben-, sulfate-, and cruelty-free. 

From greying, dry or ageing locks to damaged, easily breakable or thinning tresses, the brand’s plant-based products are designed to nourish the scalp for healthy, vibrant, and rejuvenated hair.

NatureLab Tokyo’s core products in Malaysia are tailored to specific hair concerns, with their main highlights being the Saisei サイセイ and Kiseki キセキ lines.

Saisei サイセイ: Rebirth for Your Hair

NatureLab Tokyo Saisei Stress Defense Amino-Acid Shampoo

Inspired by the Japanese word for 'rebirth', the Saisei サイセイ collection is designed to slow and reverse greying and fallout by revitalising hair health.

Formulated after 12 years of research and development, this award-winning, patented formula is clinically proven to reverse hair greying - 73% of men and women who participated in a study observed reduced gray hair after 3 months of consistent use.

The Saisei サイセイ formula features NatureLab Tokyo’s biomimetic peptides, which mimic naturally occurring peptides to revitalise hair follicles and stimulate melanin production.

Enriched with botanical extracts, this delivers a gentle, lightweight treatment that improves scalp health, cleanses the hair and scalp without stripping moisture, and protects natural hair color against environmental stressors such as UV exposure that can affect hair pigmentation and growth.

Follow a simple three-step daily routine with the entire collection: Stress Defense Amino-Acid Shampoo, Restoring Therapy Conditioner, and Biomimetic Peptide Treatment Essence.

With three months of regular use, Saisei サイセイ promises a transformative journey back to fuller, more vibrant hair.

Kiseki キセキ: Miraculous Repair for Damaged Hair

NatureLab Tokyo Kiseki Molecular Repair Leave-in Masque

The Kiseki キセキ collection, named after the Japanese word for 'miracle', introduces an advanced approach to reversing hair damage at a molecular level in just four minutes.

It features the Kiseki (Miracle) Molecular Repair Leave-In Masque, a revolutionary, highly concentrated leave-in treatment that reaches the innermost hair strands to repair damage from bleach, colour treatments, chemicals, heat, and environmental stressors, leaving hair stronger, silkier, softer, bouncier, and more resilient.

Each ingredient has been carefully selected for its restorative properties, some with a long history in herbal and traditional medicines.

Milk thistle seed extract, with its high peptide content and low molecular weight, ensures the formula can penetrate deeply to strengthen hair from within.

Additionally, green tea seed oil helps nourish the scalp, replenish the hair shaft, and promote new, healthy hair growth.

Inspired by its Japanese heritage, the Kiseki キセキ line draws on the rejuvenating scent of the Hinoki Forest.

Fresh citrus, woodsy lavender, sweet incense, and crisp cypress combine to evoke a fragrant, therapeutic experience sure to completely rejuvenate haircare routines.

Sustainable, Restorative Haircare

VIP Speech by Mr Keigo “Tiger” Hishiya, Managing Director, NatureLab, Co. Ltd.

Mr. Keigo 'Tiger' Hishiya, Managing Director of NatureLab Co. Ltd., said, 'At NatureLab Tokyo, our philosophy is 'perfectly imperfect' - bringing together the best of nature and science to target hair troubles at their very root.

Our products are all performance-driven, formulated through in-depth research and development to deliver exceptional results.

We’re also driven by our mission to bring 'strength to humanity' and improve everyday lives, which is why we ensure all our products are safe, sustainable, and environmentally friendly.

We’re excited to offer Malaysians quality haircare solutions that will help them achieve beautiful, healthy hair and embrace their best selves with confidence.'

In addition to the Saisei サイセイ and Kiseki キセキ lines, NatureLab Tokyo’s other collections will also be available in Malaysia, including:

• Perfect Volume: A game-changer for those struggling with flat, thin or limp tresses, this shampoo and conditioner pair adds density, strength, and thickness to hair that stays soft and silky.


• Perfect Repair: Damaged or dyed hair woes are a thing of the past as this collection replenishes moisture, repairs damage and protects strands against future breakage.


• Perfect Clean: A special clarifying scalp scrub that helps cleanse, exfoliate, and hydrate the scalp for revitalised, radiant locks.

NatureLab Tokyo products are now available nationwide in store and online through its exclusive retailer, Watsons.

They can also be purchased via the Mandom Official Store on Shopee and Lazada. 

For more information, visit their Website or Instagram page. 

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

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For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!

 

Ramadan Around the World: Unique Traditions That Make the Holy Month Special

Eisya Ereena
February 28, 2025
7 min

Ramadan is a time of fasting, reflection, and devotion.

While Muslims worldwide observe the same core practices, each culture adds its own special touch.

From glowing lanterns in Egypt to bustling bazaars in Malaysia, every country has traditions that make the holy month even more meaningful.

Let’s explore how different cultures celebrate Ramadan and the unique customs that bring communities together.

Egypt: Fanoos Lanterns and the Mesaharaty

In Egypt, Ramadan is incomplete without Fanoos lanterns.

These beautifully decorated lights hang in homes, streets, and mosques, creating a warm and festive glow.

This tradition began during the Fatimid era, when lanterns were used to light the streets at night.

Over time, they became a symbol of Ramadan joy.

Today, families gift them to children as a way to mark the start of the month.

Another well-known tradition is the Mesaharaty.

Before sahur, a man walks through the streets, beating a drum and calling out names to wake people up.

In many areas, children wait eagerly to hear their names, making it an exciting moment before dawn.

Egyptian iftar meals often include khoshaf (a dried fruit and nut drink), mahshi (stuffed vegetables), and konafa (a sweet pastry soaked in syrup).

Families also gather for communal iftar meals in public spaces, ensuring that everyone has food to break their fast.

Turkey: Public Iftars and Ramadan Drummers

In Turkey, iftar is a community event.

Families, neighbours and strangers gather at long tables set up in mosques, parks, and town squares.

Some restaurants even offer free iftar meals, emphasising the spirit of giving during Ramadan.

A beloved tradition in Turkey is the Ramadan drummers (Ramazan Davulcusu).

These men, dressed in traditional Ottoman clothing, march through neighbourhoods playing drums to wake people for sahur.

This practice has continued for over 400 years, and in some areas, families tip the drummers as a token of appreciation.

At the end of Ramadan, Turkish families celebrate Eid al-Fitr, known as Şeker Bayramı (Sugar Feast).

Children receive sweets like baklava and Turkish delight as they visit relatives and neighbours.

Indonesia: Fireworks, Ngabuburit, and Eid Homecomings

Indonesia, home to the world’s largest Muslim population, welcomes Ramadan with lively traditions.

In Semarang, the start of the month is marked by Dugderan, a festival featuring fireworks, parades, and puppet shows.

During Ramadan, Indonesians observe Ngabuburit - a tradition where families spend time before iftar by strolling through parks, shopping at markets, or enjoying street performances.

Many stop by food stalls to buy traditional Ramadan snacks like kolak (sweet coconut dessert) and es buah (fruit ice drink).

As Ramadan ends, Indonesia experiences Mudik, one of the world’s largest annual migrations.

Millions of people travel back to their hometowns to celebrate Eid with family.

Roads, airports, and bus stations become packed with travellers, all eager to reunite with loved ones.

Malaysia: Ramadan Bazaars and Moreh Gatherings

Ramadan in Malaysia is a feast for the senses, especially with its famous Ramadan bazaars.

Every evening, streets fill with vendors selling dishes like murtabak, ayam percik, and roti john. The aroma of grilled satay and fresh kuih fills the air, making it hard to resist a quick purchase.

Another important tradition is moreh, which takes place after tarawih prayers.

Mosques offer light meals such as bubur lambuk (spiced porridge), fried noodles, and traditional kuih.

These gatherings strengthen community bonds and give worshippers a chance to socialise after prayers.

During Eid al-Fitr (Hari Raya Aidilfitri), Malaysian families host 'open houses', inviting relatives, friends, and even strangers to enjoy homemade festive meals.

This tradition reflects Malaysia’s strong culture of hospitality and unity.

Morocco: The Nafar’s Call and Harira Soup

In Morocco, the Nafar signals the start of sahur.

This man, dressed in a traditional djellaba, blows a horn through the streets, a practice that has been followed for centuries.

Moroccan iftar meals begin with harira, a tomato-based soup made with lentils, chickpeas, and spices.

Other popular dishes include chebakia, a sesame honey cookie, and mint tea.

Families also gather for Ramadan storytelling sessions, where elders share folktales from Moroccan history.

On Eid, Moroccans wear embroidered kaftans and djellabas, visit family members, and exchange sweets as part of the celebration.

Pakistan: Street Iftars and Chaand Raat Festivities

Ramadan in Pakistan is deeply community-oriented.

Mosques and charity organisations set up free street iftars, ensuring that everyone has food.

Families also send trays of home-cooked food to neighbours as an act of kindness.

One of the most anticipated nights is Chaand Raat (Moon Night), the evening before Eid.

Markets stay open late as people shop for last-minute outfits, buy bangles, and apply henna.

The streets are bustling with excitement, making it a night of joy and festivity.

Eid morning begins with prayers, followed by family gatherings where people enjoy sheer khurma, a rich vermicelli dessert made with milk and nuts.

Senegal: Ndogou and Community Iftars

In Senegal, Ramadan is all about togetherness.

One of the most cherished traditions is Ndogou, where families and neighbours gather for communal iftar meals.

Senegalese iftar spreads typically include dates, coffee, bread, and lakh, a porridge made with millet and baobab fruit.

Many families prepare extra food to share with their neighbours, ensuring that no one breaks their fast alone.

Eid celebrations in Senegal are vibrant and filled with music, festive meals, and colourful traditional clothing.

Bangladesh: Iftar Delights and a Spirit of Charity

Ramadan in Bangladesh is a time of deep spiritual reflection and strong community ties.

The mosques fill with worshippers for extended prayers, including tarawih after the Isha prayer.

Streets and marketplaces come alive with festive decorations, adding to the excitement of the month.

The daily fast is broken with a traditional iftar spread, featuring popular dishes like jilapi (a sweet, deep-fried delicacy), piazu (spiced onion fritters), and beguni (crispy battered eggplant slices).

These foods are not just a source of nourishment but also an essential part of the shared iftar experience with family and friends.

Charity plays a significant role in Bangladeshi Ramadan traditions.

Acts of zakat (almsgiving) and food distribution to those in need increase, reinforcing the spirit of generosity.

Ramadan’s Universal Spirit with Unique Traditions

Despite the differences in customs, Ramadan’s essence remains the same.

It is a time of faith, reflection, self-discipline, and generosity.

From Egypt’s Fanoos lanterns to Malaysia’s bustling bazaars and Turkey’s Ramadan drummers, each country adds its own cultural touch.

These traditions bring people closer together, making the holy month more meaningful and memorable.

Wherever Ramadan is observed, it serves as a reminder of unity, gratitude, and community spirit.

Ramadan Mubarak with love from Motherhood! May Allah's blessings shine upon you and yours throughout this sacred month.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.

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For more insightful stories and fun recipes, stay tuned to Motherhood Story!