The most-approved answers
Tadika or babysitter for 2 year old while we work?
We used a registered home babysitter (taska) for the toddler years then moved to tadika at 4, and I think that combo is ideal. At 2 years old, they mainly need attention, safety, naps, and lots of one-on-one care, which a good babysitter gives better than a crowded nursery where one teacher handles many kids. The key word is REGISTERED, check that the pengasuh or taska is registered with JKM (Jabatan Kebajikan Masyarakat) and ask about ratio (how many kids she cares for), first aid knowledge, and do surprise drop-in visits. We found ours through neighbour referral, visited unannounced a few times, and installed nothing sneaky but just trusted our gut plus references. At 4+, tadika became great for socialising and pre-school prep. Match the setting to the age. Also budget wise, babysitter often cheaper than branded nursery in KL.
16First-hand experience