The findings from the 2022 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) paint a concerning picture for Malaysia’s education landscape. Malaysia was among just five countries that recorded the largest declines in reading, mathematics, and science scores, while remaining below the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) average in all three subjects since 2018.

Beyond academic achievement, PISA assesses students’ ability to apply knowledge and skills to solve real-world problems. These results suggest that many Malaysian students face challenges in developing and applying critical thinking skills compared to their global peers.

Why does critical thinking matter, and how can it be nurtured in today’s rapidly changing world? Hear from Prof Gerry George, Group Managing Director of IMU Health, as he shares his insights on the vital role of critical thinking in education at Question Everything (The Star Online, 14 June 2026).