Kuala lumpur: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the government's approach to student intake for the matriculation programme, emphasizing that it considers both academic excellence and the needs of underprivileged groups to ensure fairer access to education. He stated that students achieving outstanding results in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination, specifically those with 10As, would be granted automatic admission opportunities regardless of their racial background.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Prime Minister assured that top-performing students, whether they are Chinese, Indian, or Malay, would receive automatic entry. He also confirmed that the Bumiputera quota would be maintained, recognizing demographic factors and the necessity to support students from rural and interior areas, including regions like Sabah and Sarawak.
Speaking at the 'Jelajah Rakan Muda' programme at the Youth and Sports Complex (KOMBES) in Paroi, which was also attended by Youth and Sports Minister Dr. Mohammed Taufiq Johari, Anwar elaborated on the government's ongoing commitment to assist the poor across all communities based on need, which he termed as a requirement of justice. He emphasized, "If there are poor Indians or poor Chinese, we will help them. What do we lose by being fair to everyone who is in need?"
The Prime Minister also reiterated the importance of unity in Malaysia's multiracial society, urging citizens to embrace the motto 'Bersekutu Bertambah Mutu' (Unity Is Strength) introduced at independence by the first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj. Anwar highlighted that unity and consensus were vital for maintaining the nation's peace and prosperity.
In his address to the younger generation, Anwar cautioned against being influenced by those exploiting racial and religious sentiments for political gain. Reflecting on his experiences, he stated, "I am old, and I have seen how racial issues can threaten the country's harmony. Do not repeat those mistakes. There is no other way except for us to unite and reach consensus."
Furthermore, the Prime Minister affirmed the government's commitment to uphold Bahasa Melayu as the national and official language while acknowledging the importance of mastering other languages such as Chinese, Tamil, English, and Arabic.