THERE is no fixed cap on the number of Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) leavers entering higher education institutions, as students are instead given wide flexibility to pursue further studies according to their interests and qualifications, says the Higher Education Ministry.
Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said that about 100,000 SPM leavers and 75,000 STPM leavers this year are expected to continue their studies, not only at universities but also through technical and vocational education and training (TVET) pathways.
“We do not have a specific target because we are giving them the widest possible space… we ensure that those with these qualifications are placed according to their eligibility… as long as they are interested in continuing their studies,” he told reporters after attending the Jom Masuk Universiti Zon Sabah II programme at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) in Kota Kinabalu today.
He said students are free to choose certificate, diploma or degree-level studies depending on their interests and current industry needs.
Zambry added that the programme serves as a platform to provide students with broader guidance on available academic and career pathways, with participation from both public and private institutions under the oversight of the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).
He said the initiative had received encouraging response, with about 12,000 visitors recorded on the first day, reflecting strong interest among students exploring higher education opportunities.
The ‘Jom Masuk Universiti’ programme will conclude with its final session in Perak on April 25 and 26.
In a separate development, Zambry also officiated the MADANI Student Kitchen at the Tun Mustapha Residential College, an initiative aimed at supporting B40 university students by providing free basic meals.
The facility is operated by 40 volunteers and equipped with cooking facilities to prepare daily meals, in support of broader objectives including zero hunger and student welfare. - April 19, 2026
