THE Government will introduce two compulsory courses across universities, polytechnics and community colleges next year in a move designed to deepen young Malaysians’ understanding of nationhood, governance and the Federal Constitution.
The new subjects, titled ‘Aspirations for Nation-Building’ and ‘Contemporary Philosophy and Thought’, form part of a broader revamp of the General Studies (MPU) curriculum, replacing the former ‘Ethics and Civilisation’ course.
An estimated 1.2 million students are expected to enrol.
Professor Emeritus Datuk Dr Shamsul Amri Baharuddin, Deputy Chairman of the MPU Curriculum Review Committee, said the restructuring followed a Cabinet directive last year calling for the update of content and factual accuracy.
“The development of these new courses stems from a restructuring of the previous course, ‘Ethics and Civilisation’, which itself was renamed in 2018 from ‘Ethnic Relations’. Hence, the Ministry of Higher Education established a committee to review and introduce these courses,” Berita Harian cited him saying.
The courses are intended to provide students with a thorough understanding of the principles of federalism, the differences between states in Peninsular Malaysia,
Sabah and Sarawak, as well as the fundamental concepts of nationhood and the Malaysian Constitution. Special attention will also be given to the experiences of foreign students, and all students will be required to pass through a continuous assessment system designed for fairness.
“Through this initiative, we are confident that critical engagement with issues surrounding citizens’ rights and nationhood will be enhanced, helping to reduce prejudice and stereotypes among the younger generation,” said Shamsul Amri.
The courses will be submitted to the Malaysian Education Advisory Council, chaired by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, before receiving Cabinet approval.
Earlier, the Minister of Higher Education, Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir, had indicated that the revised MPU curriculum would place a strong emphasis on human development and Islamic philosophical perspectives.
Professor Datuk Dr Md Amin Md Taff, Chairman of the Committee of Vice-Chancellors and Rectors of Public Universities, emphasised that university curricula must remain dynamic to reflect current developments.
“The role of universities is to educate and nurture responsible citizens. This new curriculum will help cultivate a sense of national pride and awareness among students,” he said.
He added that universities are given flexibility to adjust up to 30 per cent of their curricula, subject to approval from the Malaysian Qualifications Agency, allowing higher education institutions to continually refine teaching content.
“This initiative by the Ministry of Higher Education demonstrates a commitment to producing a generation that is well-versed in the principles and workings of their country, instilling knowledge that will help them navigate and contribute positively to Malaysian society,” Professor Md Amin said. - November 22, 2025
