RPTM 2026-2035 TO ENSURE TOP TALENT IS NOT LEFT OUT OF HIGHER EDUCATION

By Mohd Ashraf Syafiq Mazlan

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 23 (Bernama) -- Expansion of higher education access under the Malaysia Higher Education Blueprint (RPTM) 2026-2035 will ensure top talent is not left behind in the country’s higher education system, said Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) Vice-Chancellor Datuk Prof Dr Ahmad Farhan Mohd Sadullah.

He said the RPTM 2026-2035, recently launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, aims to produce goal-driven nation-builders with strong humanitarian values.

“For me, the incentives (under RPTM) are designed to give top students full access. The policy announced by the Prime Minister shows the government aims to expand opportunities inclusively, making sure high-achieving students are not left sidelined.

“Top students must be allowed to enter higher education institutions to become individuals who will help build the nation,” he told Bernama.

Ahmad Farhan said the blueprint also expands university access for students with disabilities and those from low-income families.

“This is crucial, as we must provide inclusive opportunities for everyone to enter university,” he said, adding that student facilities are also a focus of the MADANI Government.

On strengthening the General Studies Subjects (MPU), he said it aims to raise awareness and understanding of the Constitution and national history.

“As we shape the nation’s future through students and graduates, they must be guided by humanitarian values,” he said, adding that MPU courses and university programmes can help develop students into outstanding individuals who will contribute to the country’s success.

Launched by Anwar on Jan 20, RPTM 2026-2035 sets a new direction for Malaysia’s higher education, emphasising humanitarian values, well-being, and sustainability to develop ethical, knowledgeable, and globally competitive graduates.

Anwar also announced that MPU, covering the Constitution and Malaysian history, will be made part of public and private university curricula.

In addition, students with a 4.0 CGPA from Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM), matriculation, or foundation programmes are guaranteed places in public universities, while 3,000 students with disabilities at public universities, polytechnics, and community colleges will receive free education.

-- BERNAMA