I am one of those fortunate overseas students who is currently sponsored by the government and I feel that Helmy and his friends have not seen the reality in many parts of the world, apart from his circle and those of his friends.
Firstly, it is a fact that many Malaysians, be they government-sponsored or self-sponsored, do contemplate with the idea of not returning to Malaysia upon graduation. Many overseas students often consider the following questions:
'Am I going to get a good and satisfying job when I get back to Malaysia?' and 'Am I going to get to practice all this high-tech stuff back home? (This is especially true if you are an engineering student.)
Well, as Helmy clearly pointed out, he and his friends think that Malaysia's technology and medical practices are inferior of those in the UK. Hence, most of them have the 'noble' thought of staying back and absorbing 'valuable experience' to bring back with them.
But, sadly, after a few years living and earning British pounds, these 'expats' would normally fall in love with their new found homeland.
Yes, it is true that the rationale of sending students overseas is to expose them to technology not so readily available back home. And most students (including myself) manage to accomplish this mission during our undergraduate years which includes practical work, training etc).
But somehow, many of us have the notion that a life overseas will be better and more fulfilling (and that would be another debate). My point is, it is a fact that many government-sponsored students do not returned to Malaysia. Don't deny this simply because you do not see it.
As for the 'conspiracy theory' mentioned in Helmy's letter, I guess we can only guess. Personally, I have met children of government officials who have managed to 'win' scholarships based on a mix of merit and their connections.
There's no denying that many of us have to use our parents 'connections' to get things done in life. This is a fact and it is pointless to paint a rosy picture to deny the realities of life.