Tanjong malim: The Malaysia Higher Education Plan (RPTM) 2026-2035 is focused on developing students who are not only academically competent but also grounded in strong values and good character. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir emphasized that the goal of education extends beyond producing knowledgeable and skilled graduates to shaping individuals capable of navigating a changing world and the demands of the job market.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Zambry stated, "The purpose of education is to make us better people. If we study but our character and behaviour worsen, then we have missed the point of education," in a statement issued by Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI). He made these remarks during the "Sembang Santai Bersama Doc Zam" session, held in conjunction with the Perak Sejahtera Student Carnival 3.0 at UPSI.
Zambry highlighted the importance of a humanity-centric approach to ensure that academic excellence aligns with the development of students' character and personal values. He noted that rapid technological changes, including advances in AI and computing technology, necessitate an adaptable higher education system to prepare students for an evolving job landscape.
He further explained that the RPTM introduces greater flexibility, enabling working adults to resume their studies through the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) pathway. This flexibility is part of the plan to address the immense challenges faced by today's students compared to previous generations.
Regarding the Perak Sejahtera Student Carnival 3.0, Zambry mentioned that the programme, which attracted 807 participants from various educational institutions, serves as a crucial platform for building networks, confidence, and unity among Perak's youth. He stressed the importance of nurturing the spirit of togetherness embodied by participants from diverse districts and ethnicities to produce a competitive generation of future leaders.
Meanwhile, UPSI vice-chancellor Prof Datuk Dr Md Amin Md Taff, in the same statement, remarked that the programme provides Perak students an opportunity to share experiences and draw inspiration from experienced figures in leadership and higher education. He noted that such gatherings are vital in shaping a younger generation capable of contributing to the nation's development.