Kuala lumpur: The government's decision to allow graduates of tahfiz schools and institutions, Chinese Private Secondary Schools, or holders of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) to enrol in public institutions of higher learning (IPTA) aims to expand access to tertiary education for Malaysians.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke stated that this initiative is part of the government's commitment, as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in January. It provides additional pathways for students from education systems outside the Ministry of Education (MOE) to further their studies at public universities.

"It is not just UEC holders. Tahfiz certificate holders are also now eligible. This is about expanding access for Malaysians to pursue higher education and that is a positive development," Loke expressed to reporters following the launch of the Segambut Utara Railway Station. The event also saw the presence of Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh, Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Hasbi Habibollah, and Datuk Seri Fadlun Mak Ujud, who represented Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Seri Dr Maimunah Mohd Sharif.

Loke, also serving as Transport Minister, criticized the opposition for their objections to the government's efforts to broaden educational opportunities. He emphasized the importance of expanding access to education to ensure that children have the opportunity to receive better education. He accused the opposition of opposing educational expansion efforts without considering the benefits for children's higher education opportunities.

The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) announced that the Cabinet had agreed to several decisions concerning the admission pathways for students from tahfiz schools and institutions, private schools, and Chinese Independent High Schools, facilitating their entry into public institutions of higher learning.