Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) is being urged to expand its role from traditional accreditation and compliance activities to becoming a pivotal enabler of transformation and trust in the nation's higher education system, according to Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, during his keynote address at the MQA Presidents' Forum (Universities) 2026, themed 'RPTM 2026-2035: Shaping the Future of Malaysian Higher Education in an Era of Global Transformation', Dr Zambry emphasized that the mission of quality assurance now encompasses building confidence, fostering innovation, enhancing mobility, and safeguarding Malaysia's reputation as a reliable international education hub. He noted that while accreditation and compliance remain important, they no longer fully capture the essence of quality assurance, which now includes broader objectives such as positioning Malaysia as a globally trusted education destination.
Dr Zambry asserted that the current educational landscape demands a quality assurance system that is agile, responsive, and internationally connected. As students increasingly pursue diverse learning pathways, combining degrees with professional certifications, micro-credentials, and lifelong learning opportunities, the MQA's role is evolving into that of a strategic enabler rather than just a regulatory body.
He further elaborated on Malaysia's strategic advantage as an international education hub, with students from over 180 countries studying in the country. Maintaining trust in Malaysia's higher education system necessitates strict adherence to quality standards and the credibility of academic programs. This strategic focus aligns with the Malaysia Higher Education Blueprint 2026-2035, aimed at developing a globally respected and future-ready education ecosystem.
The forum also underscored ASEAN collaboration in strengthening regional higher education, with Malaysia advocating for innovation through collaboration and quality through mutual trust. MQA's chief executive officer, Datuk Prof Mohamad Shatar Sabran, highlighted the significance of the inaugural MQA Presidents' Forum, which brought together quality assurance leaders, university presidents, and vice-chancellors from across ASEAN. The forum marks a milestone for MQA, emphasizing collective leadership and partnerships in shaping the future of higher education.
The event, organized by MQA in collaboration with strategic partners from India, the Philippines, Singapore, and Malaysia, attracted 200 participants from 11 ASEAN countries. Discussions centered around themes such as graduate employability, digital transformation, innovation, and future-ready learning, reflecting a shared aspiration for an integrated and innovative higher education ecosystem in ASEAN.