The government will ensure that high-scoring 2023 SPM holders who failed to enter public university programmes will be given places to further their studies.

Higher Education Minister Zambry Abdul Kadir said his ministry and the Education Ministry will work together to identify students who scored 10As and above.

“They might not secure a place in matriculation, but they can still enter foundation programmes at public universities. I think now is the adjustment period… whether they get both offers or scholarships. They must choose one.

“We believe we have no issues in facilitating students who scored 10As and above as there are sufficient places in university foundation programmes and matriculation to accommodate them,” he said.

He was speaking to reporters after a Concorde Club meeting in Kuala Lumpur today.

The Concorde Club is an informal gathering of senior editors and journalists with politicians and key policymakers. National news agency Bernama chairperson and Star Media Group adviser Wong Chun Wai was also present.

The placements for 2023 SPM candidates in matriculation courses and public university foundation programmes were announced on June 20 and 28 respectively.

Those who obtained 10As and above or scored all As but did not receive any offer from both programmes can submit an appeal.

Ensuring equal opportunities

Yesterday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced that all 2023 SPM holders who scored 10As and above would be guaranteed a spot in any matriculation programme, regardless of race or region, starting this year.

The cabinet made the decision on Friday.

Zambry said this was part of the government’s efforts to ensure equal opportunities and recognise excellent students, reminding all parties not to politicise the decision.

“The bumiputera quota is not affected, but at the same time, those who scored 10As and above will get a spot. We can allocate to all, so there is no issue of the bumiputera quota being reduced,” he said.

Today, Anwar assured that the government will maintain the bumiputera quota for SPM holders to continue their studies at the matriculation level as enshrined in Article 153 of the Federal Constitution, which involves the special position of Malays and bumiputera in Sabah and Sarawak.

- Bernama

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