Kuala lumpur: The government is set to tackle the shortage of accommodation facilities at various polytechnics by implementing improvement measures, including repairing hostels identified as needing urgent attention, announced Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir. This initiative comes in response to a significant surge in applications to polytechnics and skills institutions, a development attributed to the government's push for more Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) holders to engage in technical and vocational education and training (TVET).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Zambry highlighted that the rise in accommodation demand is a positive outcome of the government's efforts to direct more SPM graduates towards technical fields, particularly those offered at polytechnics and other skills institutions. "For the first time, we recorded more than 125 per cent achievement in applications. Therefore, we have provided places for them," he stated during his keynote address at the 2026 Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) Presidents' Forum.

Dr Zambry further explained that the increased student admissions have led to accommodation constraints, especially at polytechnics with older hostel buildings that require maintenance. The Higher Education Ministry (MOHE) is actively identifying hostels in need of repair to ensure students have access to better living conditions.

The Ministry has requested government intervention to carry out necessary repairs at several polytechnics identified as being in poor condition. "Insya-Allah, we will address the issue," Dr Zambry assured.

Recent reports indicate that 30,488 new students registered at polytechnics nationwide for the Session 1 of the 2026/2027 intake on June 22, showcasing a remarkable achievement of over 125 per cent. In light of this surge, Dr Zambry has instructed the Polytechnic and Community College Education Department director-general, Dr Shamsuri Abdullah, to take swift action regarding placement and other related matters.