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Advancing Inclusive Education from the Early Ages in ASEAN using AI and Digital Technologies

Editor

Listed:
  • Bruno Abrioux Takano
  • Chui Yee Chong
  • Masaki Ishibashi

Author

Listed:
  • Bruno Abrioux Takano
  • Chui Yee Chong
  • Masaki Ishibashi

Abstract

This report explores inclusive early childhood care and education in Malaysia, with a particular focus on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies into developmental screening and intervention for preschool-aged children. While Malaysia has established a strong policy foundation for inclusion, significant challenges remain. Access to screening and intervention services is still limited, fragmented, and uneven, particularly for children aged three to six. To help address these systemic gaps, TOY8 proposes an Inclusive Education 2.0 model that leverages AI-powered, mobile-based developmental screening tools and a digitalised Individual Education Programme (IEP). This model is designed to enable early identification of developmental delays, streamline individualised intervention, and strengthen collaboration amongst stakeholders. Initial pilot studies in Sarawak have shown promising results, including improved detection rates, shorter delays in intervention, and strengthened inclusive practices. The report concludes by calling for strategic policy reforms, cross-sectoral collaboration, and investment in scalable, ethically grounded digital solutions to accelerate the development of inclusive education systems in Malaysia.

Suggested Citation

  • Bruno Abrioux Takano & Chui Yee Chong & Masaki Ishibashi, 2025. "Advancing Inclusive Education from the Early Ages in ASEAN using AI and Digital Technologies," Books, Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia (ERIA), number 2025-RPR-29 edited by Bruno Abrioux Takano & Chui Yee Chong & Masaki Ishibashi, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:era:eriabk:2025-rpr-29
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Lia C. H. Fernald & Elizabeth Prado & Patricia Kariger & Abbie Raikes, 2017. "A Toolkit for Measuring Early Childhood Development in Low and Middle-Income Countries," World Bank Publications - Books, The World Bank Group, number 29000, October.
    2. World Bank, 2023. "Shaping First Steps: A Comprehensive Review of Preschool Education in Malaysia," World Bank Publications - Reports 39851, The World Bank Group.
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