The Ministry of Education recently announced the abolition of the UPSR and PT3 exams. Speaking in Parliament on November 26, Minister Fadhlina Sidek explained that the decision aims to reduce academic stress among students. Responding to a question from Tan Kar Hing, she noted that rising student suicide cases, with some linked to academic pressure, prompted the move.

“This is why the ministry decided to eliminate exams—to move away from exam-based learning,” Fadhlina stated.

Without UPSR and PT3, students will shift to inquiry-based, experiential, and contextual learning, along with continuous assessments. Fadhlina emphasized that student well-being, including mental health, remains a top priority. The Ministry plans to conduct annual mental health screenings for students from Year 5 to Form 6. Those identified with severe emotional issues will receive targeted support twice a year.

Additionally, a Teacher Well-being Index (IKG) is being developed to evaluate educators’ well-being based on factors like autonomy, resources, psychological health, and workplace harmony.

Many Malaysians expressed skepticism about the decision, fearing it could harm academic standards and discipline:

“Might as well not go to school. No wonder students today are too smart.”

“This will add more stress for teachers.”

“Without exams, kids won’t take learning seriously.”

“UPSR needs to return to gauge student progress before advancing.”

“Even top universities like Oxford and Cambridge rely on exams.”

Some also voiced concerns about parents’ ability to track their children's academic progress, while others criticized the move as detrimental to the nation’s education system.