Declining Recruitment and Teacher Retention in Malaysian Early Childhood Education: A Qualitative Analysis of Contributing Factors and Psychological Support Mechanisms

Nurmuma Kamarina Jamil; Zaheril Zainudin; Hartini Ibrahim; Rosni Ab Rani

Authors

Nurmuma Kamarina Jamil Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies, City University of Malaysia, No. 8, Jalan 51A/223, Seksyen 51A, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Zaheril Zainudin Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies, City University of Malaysia, No. 8, Jalan 51A/223, Seksyen 51A, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Hartini Ibrahim Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies, City University of Malaysia, No. 8, Jalan 51A/223, Seksyen 51A, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Rosni Ab Rani Faculty of Education and Liberal Studies, City University of Malaysia, No. 8, Jalan 51A/223, Seksyen 51A, 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

Abstract

Teacher shortages in Early Childhood Education (ECE) have become an escalating concern in Malaysia, particularly within the private kindergarten sector. Despite the importance of ECE in shaping national human capital, the profession continues to experience declining recruitment, high attrition, and weak professional identity. This study explores the lived experiences of ECE educators to understand the systemic, emotional, and motivational factors influencing workforce decline. Using an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), semi structured interviews were conducted with seven ECE educators in Kuala Lumpur. Thematic analysis identified five dominant challenges: low financial rewards, excessive workload, minimal career advancement, emotional burnout, and limited societal recognition. Intrinsic motivation especially passion for young children remained a strong sustaining factor, yet insufficient to counter structural constraints. Findings indicate that a sustainable ECE workforce requires competitive compensation, mental health support, structured career pathways, and professionalisation of the sector. This article contributes to workforce research by integrating psychological, motivational, and systemic insights to inform strategies for retaining educators in Malaysia’s ECE sector.