Kuala Lampur, Jan. 24 -- The report "Starting school at six: How Malaysia stacks up against its neighbours" is illuminating.

According to the report, across South-east Asia, Malaysia stands out for starting formal education later than most of its neighbours.

In Malaysia, children typically start primary education - Standard One (Darjah Satu) - at age seven.

In Singapore, children typically start primary education - Primary One (P1) - at age six, in the year they turn seven (as P1 begins in January).

In Indonesia, children enroll into primary education at age six. So too children in Thailand and Vietnam.

Why do Malaysian children start later?

Lest we forget, the law says that primary education is compulsory and it starts at age six....