Kuala lumpur: The Bahasa Melayu and History subjects in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination will remain compulsory for admission into public institutions of higher learning (IPTA), as announced by Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir. This mandate applies even to students from outside the national education system.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the recent Cabinet meeting agreed on decisions concerning the admission pathways for students from tahfiz institutions, private schools, and Sekolah Menengah Persendirian Cina (SMPC) to pursue studies at IPTA. The UPUOnline system assessment is based on SPM results, requiring students from these streams to sit for and pass the History and Bahasa Melayu subjects, recognized by the Malaysian Examinations Council.

Zambry emphasized that IPTA entry requirements will continue to rely on the SPM system, despite the government's efforts to open pathways for students from other education streams. He addressed concerns that the government's decision might undermine the national education system, clarifying that the principle remains unchanged: entry into IPTA is based on the SPM system.

The government agreed to several decisions regarding admission pathways for students from tahfiz institutions, private schools, and SMPC into IPTA. Candidates with a full SPM certificate can apply for any programme offered through the UPUOnline system.

In other developments, Zambry highlighted the government's initiative to elevate polytechnics and community colleges to meet current changes and national development needs. He emphasized the importance of adapting to global changes to avoid being left behind.