The release of the preliminary results from Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022, on 5 December 2023, highlights the importance of introducing Southeast Asia Primary Learning Metrics (SEA-PLM), an educational assessment tailored for Southeast Asian countries. This raises the question: What motivates the choice of a regional assessment like SEA-PLM over the globally recognised PISA?

In the quest for educational improvement, both PISA and SEA-PLM assessments offer valuable insights. Delving into the full-text results of these evaluations equips educators, policymakers, and stakeholders with a wealth of data to inform strategic decisions. The choice between PISA and SEA-PLM depends on the unique needs, goals, and regional subtleties of participating countries. By scrutinising and applying the findings carefully, nations can chart a course toward elevating their education systems to new heights.