A COMPARISON OF INDONESIA AND MALAYSIA'S NATIONAL EDUCATION SYSTEM IN TERMS OF SCIENCE LEARNING IMPLEMENTATION

Abstract

Focusing on curriculum, teaching methods and learning outcomes, this study compares the policies and implementation of science learning in Indonesia and Malaysia. This research stems from the fact that science education is crucial to building quality human resources in the era of globalization. One of the main problems faced is the difference in policy and the effectiveness of the implementation of science education in the two countries. The purpose of this study is to look at the differences in the science education system in the two countries, find the problems faced, and make suggestions to improve the quality of science learning in Indonesia. A literature study was conducted using a descriptive-comparative approach. The results showed that Malaysia has a more stable science education system after STEM integration. On the other hand, Indonesia is transitioning to the Merdeka Curriculum, and there are problems in implementing it. Indonesia still uses the lecture method, but Malaysia uses project and technology-based approaches. The science literacy of Indonesian students is lower compared to Malaysia, according to the results of PISA and TIMSS evaluations. So, to improve science literacy and global competitiveness, policy stability, improved teacher training, and implementation of project- and technology-based learning are needed to improve science education in Indonesia.