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Education

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 18 -- University of Malaya (UM) has achieved the highest position in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings (WUR) when it rose two places from 58th to 56th in the world. This achievement strengthens UM's position as the best university in Malaysia and places it in the top 3.7 percent of the world's best universities. Among Malaysian institutions, UM ranks first for the indicators of Academic Reputation, Employer Reputation, Employability Outcomes and Sustainability. Globally, the university ranks 56th, 61st, 184th and 166th for all four indicators, respectively. In addition, the university also achieved strong global rankings in International Research Networks (125th) and International Students (153rd). UM Vice-Chancellor Prof Datuk Seri Ir Dr Noor Azuan Abu Osman described the university's best achievement in the QS WUR as a historic moment that makes the institution proud and significant to the country. "It is the result of a university that chooses discipline over complacency, implementation over rhetoric, and shared determination over mere conventional wisdom," he said. He said the success reflected the strength of an institution that is mission- and values-based, supported by the hard work and commitment of its academics, researchers, students, staff and leadership team. "It proves that when strategic vision is accompanied by clarity, coherence, courage and sustained action, Universiti Malaya not only participates in the global higher education landscape, but also shapes it," he said. Expressing appreciation to all UM staff, Noor Azuan said the achievement was the result of clear planning, institutional alignment, teamwork and consistent focus on critical sectors that shape the future. "It is embodied in the quality of our research and new areas of focus, the aspirations of our students, the dedication of our academics, the professionalism of our staff, as well as the relentless efforts of every faculty, centre, department and team that has carried the UM name with pride and excellence. According to Noor Azuan, UM is driven by continuous efforts in advanced research, digital transformation, sustainability, talent excellence, innovation, industry relevance and global partnerships. He said as the world becomes increasingly shaped by uncertainty, disruption and intense competition, institutions need to become more agile, resilient and bold in implementing reforms. Noor Azuan said the ranking was important because it reflected quality, trust and impact, and the university would continue to strive to achieve higher positions. However, he stressed that UM's broader mission is to lead the nation, elevate human dignity and help shape the future of the world. "We will continue to lead the national responsibility in shaping Malaysia's growth, strengthening the nation's resilience and producing the knowledge, talent and solutions needed by people and the world," he said. UM's overall score for the 2027 edition is 81.2 covering QS's key performance dimensions, namely Research and Discovery, Marketability and Productivity, Sustainability, Learning Experience and Global Engagement. The university recorded a score of 92.8 for Academic Reputation and 93.1 for Employer Reputation in recognition of its academic excellence as well as graduates who are highly employable and industry-ready. Meanwhile, scores of 93.4 for International Research Networks, 93.1 for International Students and 83.7 for International Faculty reflect its growing international profile and extensive global collaborations. The QS World University Rankings 2027 assessed 8,808 institutions worldwide, including 32 from Malaysia. Only 1,504 institutions made it into the final rankings across 106 locations. University of Malaya celebrates its 121st anniversary in 2026. Throughout its proud history, the university has produced many leaders and scholars who have made an impact at the national and global levels. -- BERNAMA

UM rises to 56th place, its best position in QS World University Rankings

KUALA LUMPUR, JUNE 18 — University of Malaya (UM) has achieved the highest position in the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings (WUR) when it rose two places from 58th .... read more

TANJONG MALIM, June 16 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) is planning to involve private higher education institutions (IPTS) in the National Service Training Programme (PLKN) in the future. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said, however, that the matter is subject to discussions with National Service Training Department (JLKN) director-general Maj Gen Datuk Marzuki Mokhtar. “He will determine the sequencing of the programme, including whether private institutions will participate alongside public universities. Following the involvement of public universities, private institutions may be included at a later stage. “We will also look at state-owned private higher education institutions, as every state has its own universities. There are also government-linked company (GLC) universities such as Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka (UTeM), Multimedia University (MMU) and others, which will be given due attention,” he told reporters after the launch of the book titled Nahas Gerik: UPSI Berduka at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) here today. Earlier, he officiated the pilot programme for the PLKN 3.0 at the public university level, which was also attended by Defence Ministry deputy secretary-general (Management) Datin Roszanina Wahab, Higher Education Department director-general Datuk Prof Dr Azlinda Azman, Marzuki and UPSI vice-chancellor Datuk Prof Dr Md Amin Md Taff. On UPSI becoming the first university to implement PLKN 3.0, Zambry said the programme had received an encouraging response, involving 1,005 newly enrolled diploma students from the June 2026 intake, comprising 567 male and 438 female trainees selected to participate. “At the MOHE level, we are fully committed to ensuring that PLKN 3.0 is implemented as effectively as possible. “After that, we will also roll out the programme at polytechnics and community colleges. However, at this stage, our focus is on public higher education institutions (IPTAs) first,” he said. Previously, Bernama reported that the programme followed a RM250 million allocation under Budget 2026 for a pilot implementation at the higher education level before being expanded to all IPTAs in 2027. Meanwhile, regarding the launch of the book today, its publication is an initiative by UPSI to document an event that had a profound impact on the university community and society at large, while also serving as a tribute to the victims and families affected by the UPSI student bus tragedy in Gerik on June 9, 2025. In the early hours of June 9, 2025, 15 UPSI students were killed when a specially chartered bus transporting them from Jertih to the university's main campus in Tanjong Malim overturned after colliding with a Perodua Alza multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). -- BERNAMA

MOHE Plans To Involve IPTS In PLKN – Zambry

TANJONG MALIM, June 16 — The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) is planning to involve private higher education institutions (IPTS) in the National Service Training Programme (PLKN) in the future. .... read more

KUALA NERUS, June 16 -- Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the transparency and integrity of the system and mechanisms governing student admissions to public universities. UMT Corporate Communications Office director Zukiferee Ibrahim said the university views seriously a statement by Jitra assemblyman Dr Haim Hilman Abdullah, who alleged that places at public universities were being sold and that backdoor admissions were being offered to students who did not meet academic entry requirements. He said such allegations could create negative perceptions of the transparency of public higher education institutions (IPTAs) and erode public confidence in the integrity of the national education system. “The admission system for public universities in Malaysia is implemented through a transparent and orderly mechanism, and is subject to policies and regulations set by the relevant authorities. “Therefore, any statement that could mislead the public or cast doubt on the process should be examined based on credible facts and evidence,” he said in a statement today. Following the allegations, Zukiferee said UMT's management had lodged a police report against the Kedah state executive councillor to enable a professional, independent and comprehensive investigation to be carried out. He said that, as a public institution of higher learning, UMT would remain committed to upholding the integrity, transparency and credibility of the country's higher education system in the interests of students, society and national development. -- BERNAMA

UMT Upholds Integrity Of Public University Admissions System

KUALA NERUS, June 16 — Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the transparency and integrity of the system and mechanisms governing student admissions to public universities. .... read more

GEORGE TOWN, JUNE 15 -- The Ministry of Education (KPM) has given an assurance that no Chinese national-type schools (SJKC) or Tamil national-type schools (SJKT) will be closed under the administration of the Civil Government. Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh said the stance reflected the government's commitment to ensuring that all school streams continue to be maintained as part of the national education system. He said the government understood the concerns often expressed by the community, especially the Chinese and Indian communities, regarding the future of vernacular schools, including the issue of student shortages and challenges related to school sites. "Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek has repeatedly, both in Parliament and outside Parliament, stressed that vernacular schools are an important part of our education system. "The Madani Government's commitment is to guarantee that no school, whether SJKC or SJKT, will be closed. We will maintain all existing schools," he said at the Handing Over of Approval Letter for the Construction of the New SJKT Rajaji Building, here, today, which was also attended by the Chairman of the Penang Tamil Schools Special Committee, Datuk Seri S Sundarajoo. Kah Woh said that previously there had been various concerns regarding the possibility of certain schools being closed or merged, in addition to the position of vernacular schools which was often questioned by certain parties. Therefore, he said the government's guarantee is hoped to give confidence to school governing boards (LPS), educators and local communities to continue to focus on the development of their respective schools. He stressed that the Ministry of Education will continue to pay attention to the development of all school streams in the country in line with the government's aspirations to ensure that access to quality education can be enjoyed by every student regardless of background. Meanwhile, he said the increase in maintenance allocation from RM20 million to RM50 million for SJKT announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim last January was part of efforts to strengthen education infrastructure nationwide, in addition to ensuring that basic school facilities were in a safe, conducive and suitable condition for the teaching and learning process. Apart from that, he said, it also reflects the Madani Government's concern for the current needs of vernacular schools, especially those facing issues with building maintenance and basic facilities, with distribution being made in a more structured manner based on the actual needs of each school. In a related development, Kah Woh said 22 SJKTs with government-aided school status in Penang will receive funds totaling RM1.156 million for the purchase and replacement of furniture through allocations from the Malaysian Indian Community Transformation Unit (MITRA) under the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA). He said the implementation of the furniture supply would be carried out within one to two months after the process of matching school needs was completed with the school administration in the state involved. -- BERNAMA

MOE guarantees SJKT, SJKC will not be closed under the Civilian Government

GEORGE TOWN, JUNE 15 — The Ministry of Education (KPM) has given an assurance that no Chinese national-type schools (SJKC) or Tamil national-type schools (SJKT) will be closed under the .... read more

SEREMBAN, June 15 (Bernama) -- A total of 5,953 police personnel and members of other agencies will be deployed throughout the Negeri Sembilan state election period to ensure the democratic process proceeds smoothly and remains orderly. State police chief Datuk Alzafny Ahmad said the figure comprises 4,845 senior police officers and rank-and-file personnel, while the remainder will serve as support personnel, including members of the People’s Volunteer Corps (RELA) and police volunteer reserve. “We are maintaining a high level of readiness through various comprehensive preparations that have been put in place from the outset, including security measures, traffic control, monitoring of campaign activities, law enforcement, and preparations for any eventuality throughout the election period,” he told Bernama today. He said the police would continue to conduct ongoing assessments and have not ruled out the possibility of seeking additional assistance from other contingents if necessary to strengthen existing resources and ensure operational requirements are carried out more effectively. Meanwhile, Alzafny said the police would continue to respect the right of all parties to conduct campaign activities as provided for under the law. “Accordingly, security monitoring and control measures will be intensified to ensure that all campaign activities, including political ceramah, party processions and election-related programmes, are conducted peacefully and in compliance with regulations set by the authorities,” he said. He said stern action would be taken against any individual or party found violating the law, inciting provocation, or engaging in any act that could disrupt public order and undermine the smooth conduct of the democratic process. He also urged all political parties, candidates, supporters and members of the public to uphold a culture of political maturity, respect differing views and comply with the law throughout the campaign period. The public was also advised not to engage in any form of provocation, dissemination of false information, or actions that could create tension and jeopardise social harmony. The Election Commission (EC) has set Aug 1 as polling day for the Negeri Sembilan state election, with nomination day on July 18 and early voting on July 28. -- BERNAMA

10,000 underprivileged students benefit from RM210 million BAeK PTPTN allocation

KULAI: The National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) has allocated RM210 million through the Biasiswa Anak eKasih (PTPTN BAeK) which will benefit 10,000 poor and extremely poor students this year. .... read more

IPOH, June 12 -- The establishment of any school in the country is subject to the Education Act and cannot operate without approval from the relevant authorities, according to Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh. He said the Ministry of Education constantly monitors compliance with educational rules and laws to ensure that every institution offering learning operates in accordance with established guidelines. "The establishment of any school is subject to the Education Act, and naturally, no school can be set up without prior approval," he told reporters after attending the 69th Sekolah Menengah Jenis Kebangsaan (SMJK) Ave Maria Convent Academic Excellence Ceremony here today. Wong was speaking in response to allegations concerning the existence of a school run by the Rohingya community in Kuala Terengganu. Therefore, he said the ministry would leave the matter to the relevant authorities. Media reports yesterday indicated that a school believed to be operating for the ethnic Rohingya community in Kampung Ladang Titian, Kuala Terengganu, has triggered concern and unease among residents since February. Earlier, Wong congratulated 75 of the school's students for excellent 2025 Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination results, including 37 who achieved 10 to 12 As. He said the results reflect the commitment of teachers, the school board, the Parent-Teacher Association and students to raising academic standards. At the event, he also announced a RM50,000 special allocation from his office for student-led projects at the school. -- BERNAMA

Establishment Of All Schools Subject To Education Act – Deputy Minister

IPOH, June 12 — The establishment of any school in the country is subject to the Education Act and cannot operate without approval from the relevant authorities, according to Deputy .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR: University of Malaya (UM), which is currently ranked 53rd in the world, is targeted to break into the top 50 global universities by next year. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir said the target was in line with the university's ongoing efforts in strengthening a culture of academic excellence, research, innovation and talent development holistically. "UM is ranked among the world's top 100. The latest is 53rd best in the world. Previously, it was around 60th, 70th, and now 53rd and maybe next year it will be in the world's top 50. Keep trying," he said when speaking to open the Universiti Malaya Ideas Festival 2026 (UM iFEST 2026) at the Tunku Canselor Hall, UM here today. Commenting on the direction of the country's higher education, Zambry said that the progress of a civilization today no longer depends solely on resources, but rather is centered on the production of ideas that are translated into high-impact solutions. To reinforce the narrative, he also cited the insights of former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill and academic Professor Wilhelm Krull regarding the transition of global civilization towards the dominance of thought. "What did he (Churchill) say? The empires of the future will be the empires of the mind. In other words, the empires of ideas," he said, adding that the current educational revolution and technological advancements began with the ability of universities to produce groundbreaking inventions. In this regard, Zambry praised the organisation of UM IFest 2026, which was fully supported by the university's students, and described the programme as an important platform towards creating more progressive higher education. "We want to see our students, the talents in our university always develop well. These innovative efforts are carried out with a good theme, namely unleashing ideas , igniting change ." "This is a very big idea that we hope can produce something great in our context to create higher education that is more progressive, innovative and high-impact," he said. -- BERNAMA

UM is targeted to break into the top 50 universities in the world – Zambry

KUALA LUMPUR: University of Malaya (UM), which is currently ranked 53rd in the world, is targeted to break into the top 50 global universities by next year. Higher Education Minister .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 9 -- Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday engaged with students of AIMST University during the Annual Government Grant Presentation Ceremony and a "Temu Anwar" dialogue session held in an open and meaningful atmosphere. Addressing students at the university in Bedong, Kedah, Anwar stressed that a nation's progress should not be measured solely by economic growth, investment inflows, or employment opportunities, but also by the extent to which all segments of society experience justice and equality. He said Malaysia must not become complacent with its current achievements and should continue striving to create a more inclusive and equitable society. Drawing inspiration from renowned social reformer Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Anwar highlighted the importance of championing justice, human dignity, and equal opportunities for all, noting that Ambedkar rose above discrimination and marginalisation to become a leading advocate for social equality. The Prime Minister also reiterated the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi, reminding students that while the world has enough resources to meet everyone's needs, it can never satisfy the greed of a few. He emphasised that values such as compassion, mutual respect, and moderation must remain central to building a civilised and harmonious society. Anwar called on the younger generation to embrace fresh idealism, reject politics rooted in hatred and racism, and help shape Malaysia’s future based on knowledge, unity, and justice. Reaffirming the MADANI Government’s commitment to social justice, he announced that, in addition to the annual RM25 million government grant provided to AIMST University, the government had approved an additional RM1 million allocation to help more students from underprivileged families gain access to quality higher education. The Prime Minister also paid tribute to the late Tun S. Samy Vellu for his contributions and role in the establishment of AIMST University, describing education as a vital pathway for young Malaysians to uplift themselves, their communities, and the nation. He encouraged students to make full use of the educational opportunities available to them and contribute meaningfully to the country's future development. -- MINUTESMY

Government Allocates Additional RM1 Million to Support AIMST Students – PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, June 9 — Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday engaged with students of AIMST University during the Annual Government Grant Presentation Ceremony and a “Temu Anwar” dialogue .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 8 -- The move to rebrand and the implementation of various initiatives prove that the MADANI Government will not stopped striving to improve the Form Six programme. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the effort included rebranding to improve the image, system and quality of education on par with other post-secondary education. "The Form Six programme is indeed very special and close to our hearts. We have implemented various initiatives to continue to elevate this programme," she said in a Facebook post today. According to her, initiatives such as Early Schooling Assistance (BAP), the establishment of the National Form Six Student Representative Committee and strategic collaborations with public higher education institutions were implemented specifically to support Form Six students. She said the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) has high value and is recognised not only at the national level, but also by more than 2,000 international universities. Earlier, she greeted Form Six students who had just registered at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Tuanku Muhammad, Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan. “Congratulations everyone. You have taken another step forward in your efforts to achieve excellence,” she said. -- BERNAMA

MADANI Govt Will Continue To Improve Form Six Prog – Fadhlina

KUALA LUMPUR, June 8 — The move to rebrand and the implementation of various initiatives prove that the MADANI Government will not stopped striving to improve the Form Six programme. .... read more

KUALA LUMPUR, June 8 — Deputy Minister of Education, YB Wong Kah Woh, yesterday officiated the closing ceremony of the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (PBAKL) 2026 at the World Trade Centre (WTC) Kuala Lumpur. The 10-day event, which ran from May 29 to June 7, recorded an impressive attendance of 2,416,009 visitors, underscoring the continued growth and relevance of Malaysia’s book industry. A total of 232 exhibitor companies participated across 1,210 exhibition booths, comprising 209 local exhibitors and 23 international exhibitors. The strong participation highlighted the industry's dynamic development and increasing international recognition. In his closing address, Wong expressed appreciation for the overwhelming public response throughout the fair and said the success of PBAKL 2026 should serve as a benchmark for future editions. He also acknowledged the contributions of various stakeholders, including the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which participated as the Guest of Honour Country and enriched the event through cultural, literary, educational and publishing-related programmes. He noted that the involvement of countries from around the world not only showcased their unique knowledge and cultural heritage but also reinforced the role of books as a bridge connecting communities across languages, cultures and geographical boundaries. The closing ceremony also featured the presentation of ASEAN Record Recognition, the announcement of winners for the Telaah Online competition, and the presentation of the PBAKL 2026 Booth Awards. PBAKL remains one of the region’s largest literary events, promoting reading culture, knowledge sharing and international collaboration within the publishing industry. “This Year is Our Year” and “Guru Bitara is the Pulse of the Nation” were among the key themes highlighted during the event. -- MINUTESMY -- SOURCE: FB MINISTRY OF EDUCATION MALAYSIA

Deputy Education Minister Officiates Closing Ceremony of PBAKL 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, June 8 — Deputy Minister of Education, YB Wong Kah Woh, yesterday officiated the closing ceremony of the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (PBAKL) 2026 at the World .... read more

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