THE current Bumiputera quota system under the Education Ministry’s (MOE) matriculation programme will not be changed, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said.
He said this followed Article 153 of the Federal Constitution, which ensures the quota status for Malays and natives of Sabah and Sarawak.
“This is despite yesterday’s announcement that students who obtained 10As and above in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) exam will be guaranteed a place in any matriculation programme regardless of race or locality,” he said at the monthly gathering of the Prime Minister’s Department in Putrajaya today.
Anwar said the decision to open matriculation spots to all SPM top scorers, regardless of race, was meant to reduce tension in the education system.
“The Bumiputera quota system had caused controversy at times so the cabinet decided to take a balanced approach. If they are our citizens, we should care for them.
“This move should ease the ‘tension’ faced by the MOE almost yearly. Such a heated political climate can sometimes lead to racial and social tensions,” he said.
He said, however, that the Bumiputera quota must be maintained because it has long been associated with Article 153 and guarantees the future of the Malays and Bumiputera, preventing any disparities.
Anwar said the details would be disclosed by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.
“Meritocracy should not become a rigid ideology. If it continues, who will represent the disadvantaged?
“As a Madani government, we must be compassionate. Wanting this country to progress means we must uphold the best form of meritocracy, where those who are capable and bright are encouraged.
“But at the same time, we must not forget about the poor and marginalised.
“I do not want to be apologetic in defending this,” he added. – July 1, 2024.
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