This paper is an overview of the results of IDEAS’ nationwide education survey of households in the bottom 40 percent.

The average household income of the respondents was RM 919 per month. With over 1,200 households surveyed in six states across Malaysia, including Sabah and Sarawak, the results provide a glimpse into the barriers faced by low-income parents in Malaysia when they try to provide an education for their children. This paper elaborates on the five main findings which stood out from the data collected:

1. Information Gap: There is an information gap between government education plans and the information received by the poor.
2. Accessibility to Education Aid: Government education aid is not reaching the needy.
3. Lack of interest in school continues to drive students to drop out at an early age.
4. Education Expenses: Education related expenses continue to be a burden for parents from low-income households.
5. School Accessibility: Accessibility to schools continues to limit choice for parents.