Abstract
This study explored the different basic education systems implemented across ASEAN nations, including their challenges, issues, trends, and best practices through a systematic literature review. Using the PRISMA 2020 framework, the study synthesized 10 peer-reviewed articles published from 2016 to the present to provide updated and diverse perspectives on the ASEAN basic education landscape. The findings revealed that ASEAN countries continue to reform their education systems by improving curricula, governance, and instructional delivery to align with local contexts, regiona priorities, and global educational standards. These reforms include contextualized learning, K–12 restructuring, flexible governance, teacher development, instructional innovation, and the integration of lifelong and 21st-century skills to improve educational quality and global competitiveness. Despite these efforts, ASEAN nations continue to face major educational challenges such as poor literacy and numeracy outcomes, educational inequalities, inadequate resources, limited access to qualityeducation, and insufficient teacher preparation and institutional support. Rural and disadvantaged communities remain more vulnerable to poor educational outcomes due to socio-economic and geographical barriers. To address these issues, ASEAN countries emphasized continuous curriculum improvement, professional development for teachers, technology integration, student learning interventions, and stronger partnerships among governments and educational stakeholders. The study concluded that while ASEAN education systems are becoming more responsive, inclusive, and globally aligned, sustained reforms, increased investment, and collaborative efforts are still necessary to address persistent educational problems and ensure equitable and quality education for all learners across the region.