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Free Malaysia Today
3 days ago
- General
- Free Malaysia Today
The myth of diversity and inclusivity in Malaysian higher education
By P Ramasamy The recent claim by higher education minister Zambry Abd Kadir that Malaysian institutions of higher learning are 'inclusive and diverse' leaves one wondering whether he was referring to an entirely different country. Even when controversial figures like US president Donald Trump proposed restricting foreign students from studying at institutions like Harvard, those restrictions did not apply to local American students. In Malaysia, however, the reality is far grimmer: discrimination in higher education is institutionalised and, regrettably, widely accepted as the norm. Zambry's assertions about inclusivity are nothing short of hypocritical and misleading. The Malaysian higher education system is deeply racialised, overwhelmingly favouring Malay/Bumiputera students under the guise of affirmative action. Approximately 81% of admissions to public institutions of higher learning are reserved for Malay/Bumiputera students. This figure alone calls into question any genuine commitment to pluralism or inclusiveness. Ethnic restrictions also exist in the allocation of academic disciplines, particularly in high-demand fields with better employment prospects. Many public universities operate with a dominant Malay/Bumiputera student population, leaving limited space for non-Malay students and, ironically, prioritising some foreign students over local non-Malay applicants. In many cases, non-Malay Malaysians face greater difficulty accessing these institutions than international students. Unlike the US, where the judiciary often acts as a check on executive overreach, in Malaysia, discrimination is entrenched in both institutional practice and political policy. The selective application of affirmative action based on race and religion has long excluded non-Malay students – not only from admissions but also from meaningful opportunities within academic institutions. Poor non-Malay students bear the brunt of this system. While their wealthier peers may pursue private or overseas education, those from less privileged backgrounds are left behind, shut out from the public education system that is supposed to serve all Malaysians equally. What Zambry – and by extension, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim – appears to be doing is engaging in a duplicitous exercise: presenting a polished narrative to the international community while sustaining a discriminatory reality at home. Despite rising to power on promises of reform, the Pakatan Harapan-led government has done little to dismantle these entrenched structures. Diversity in Malaysian higher education is, in truth, an illusion. From student intake to faculty appointments, from departmental leadership to vice-chancellorships, representation is glaringly uneven. It is no surprise, then, that an increasing number of Malaysians – especially non-Malays – are seeking education and careers abroad, taking with them the very talent and potential the country so desperately needs. The government is well aware of these problems. The real question is: who among them will have the courage to address them? As for Zambry, perhaps the greater shame lies not in what he said, but in what he chose to leave unsaid. One wonders who wrote his speech – and more importantly, who he thought he was fooling. P Ramasamy is the Urimai chairman The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of FMT.
Barnama
3 days ago
- Politics
- Barnama
Ministers Pay Tribute To Media Practitioners On National Journalists Day
KUALA LUMPUR, May 29 (Bernama) – In conjunction with National Journalists Day (HAWANA) 2025 today, several Cabinet Ministers expressed their appreciation to media practitioners for their dedication and sacrifice in consistently upholding journalistic ethics in delivering news. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir and his deputy, Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, in a post on the ministry's official Facebook page, expressed their gratitude to all journalists for their service, sacrifice and integrity shown in pursuit of the truth. 'Today, we celebrate journalists as the pulse of the nation's information! A day that honours dedicated individuals who deliver news and information to the public quickly, accurately and ethically. You are the eyes, ears and pen that shape public awareness. 'Journalists do not merely report but also shape thinking, uphold truth, influence public opinion, and strengthen democracy. In a world full of fast information and ethical challenges, the courage and integrity of journalists become the main defense against corruption and fake news,' he said. Meanwhile, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, his deputy K. Saraswath, and the ministry's deputy secretary-general Mohamad Sobri Mat Daud expressed their thanks to media practitioners for their continued commitment in disseminating information and news to all Malaysians. Through their official Facebook page, the top management and staff of the Plantation and Commodities Ministry (KPK) also extended their greetings on National Journalists Day. 'Our highest appreciation goes to all media practitioners who are pillars in delivering accurate and reliable information to society. 'You are unsung heroes who are always on the front lines despite facing many challenges and risks. Thank you for your dedication and contribution in shaping public thinking and strengthening national unity,' the post read. The Human Resources Ministry also expressed appreciation to journalists and media practitioners who are always at the forefront in delivering information that is accurate, timely and guided by integrity.
The Star
3 days ago
- Politics
- The Star
Ministers pay tribute to media practitioners on National Journalists' Day
KUALA LUMPUR: In conjunction with National Journalists' Day (Hawana) 2025 on Thursday (May 29), several Cabinet ministers expressed their appreciation to media practitioners for their dedication and sacrifice in consistently upholding journalistic ethics in delivering news. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir and his deputy, Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, in a post on the ministry's official Facebook page, expressed their gratitude to all journalists for their service, sacrifice and integrity shown in pursuit of the truth. "Today, we celebrate journalists as the pulse of the nation's information! A day that honours dedicated individuals who deliver news and information to the public quickly, accurately and ethically. You are the eyes, ears and pen that shape public awareness. "Journalists do not merely report but also shape thinking, uphold truth, influence public opinion, and strengthen democracy. In a world full of fast information and ethical challenges, the courage and integrity of journalists become the main defense against corruption and fake news," he said. Meanwhile, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, his deputy K. Saraswath, and the ministry's deputy secretary-general Mohamad Sobri Mat Daud expressed their thanks to media practitioners for their continued commitment in disseminating information and news to all Malaysians. Through their official Facebook page, the top management and staff of the Plantation and Commodities Ministry also extended their greetings on National Journalists' Day. "Our highest appreciation goes to all media practitioners who are pillars in delivering accurate and reliable information to society. "You are unsung heroes who are always on the front lines despite facing many challenges and risks. Thank you for your dedication and contribution in shaping public thinking and strengthening national unity," the post read. The Human Resources Ministry also expressed appreciation to journalists and media practitioners who are always at the forefront in delivering information that is accurate, timely and guided by integrity. "Your dedication in connecting the voice of the people with policymakers is greatly appreciated. Continue your struggle to build an informed, sensitive and information-literate society," it said. The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry, meanwhile, described media practitioners not just as news deliverers but as the main pulse of the ministry in delivering in delivering transparent, up-to-date and ethically sound information to build understanding, strengthen public trust and preserve social harmony. "Continue to write with heart and report honestly to shape the nation's future," it said. The Information Department, through its official Facebook page, also thanked all journalists and media practitioners who tirelessly convey the truth and shape the national narrative. The highlight of the Hawana 2025 celebration will be held on June 14 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL), to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The event is expected to be attended by about 1,000 media practitioners from within and outside the country. Hawana, organised by the Communications Ministry with the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) as the implementing agency, will feature various events including a Pantun Festival on May 31 and a pre-launch event with strategic partners at Wisma Bernama on June 3, as well as a media forum jointly organised with the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) on June 14. - Bernama
The Sun
3 days ago
- Politics
- The Sun
Ministers pay tribute to media practitioners on National Journalists Day
KUALA LUMPUR: In conjunction with National Journalists Day (HAWANA) 2025 today, several Cabinet Ministers expressed their appreciation to media practitioners for their dedication and sacrifice in consistently upholding journalistic ethics in delivering news. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir and his deputy, Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, in a post on the ministry's official Facebook page, expressed their gratitude to all journalists for their service, sacrifice and integrity shown in pursuit of the truth. 'Today, we celebrate journalists as the pulse of the nation's information! A day that honours dedicated individuals who deliver news and information to the public quickly, accurately and ethically. You are the eyes, ears and pen that shape public awareness. 'Journalists do not merely report but also shape thinking, uphold truth, influence public opinion, and strengthen democracy. In a world full of fast information and ethical challenges, the courage and integrity of journalists become the main defense against corruption and fake news,' he said. Meanwhile, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, his deputy K. Saraswathy, and the ministry's deputy secretary-general Mohamad Sobri Mat Daud expressed their thanks to media practitioners for their continued commitment in disseminating information and news to all Malaysians. Through their official Facebook page, the top management and staff of the Plantation and Commodities Ministry (KPK) also extended their greetings on National Journalists Day. 'Our highest appreciation goes to all media practitioners who are pillars in delivering accurate and reliable information to society. 'You are unsung heroes who are always on the front lines despite facing many challenges and risks. Thank you for your dedication and contribution in shaping public thinking and strengthening national unity,' the post read. The Human Resources Ministry also expressed appreciation to journalists and media practitioners who are always at the forefront in delivering information that is accurate, timely and guided by integrity. 'Your dedication in connecting the voice of the people with policymakers is greatly appreciated. Continue your struggle to build an informed, sensitive and information-literate society,' it said. The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry, meanwhile, described media practitioners not just as news deliverers but as the main pulse of the ministry in delivering in delivering transparent, up-to-date and ethically sound information to build understanding, strengthen public trust and preserve social harmony. 'Continue to write with heart and report honestly to shape the nation's future,' it said. The Information Department, through its official Facebook page, also thanked all journalists and media practitioners who tirelessly convey the truth and shape the national narrative. The highlight of the HAWANA 2025 celebration will be held on June 14 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL), to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The event is expected to be attended by about 1,000 media practitioners from within and outside the country. HAWANA, organised by the Communications Ministry with the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) as the implementing agency, will feature various events including a Pantun Festival on May 31 and a pre-launch event with strategic partners at Wisma Bernama on June 3, as well as a media forum jointly organised with the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) on June 14.
The Sun
3 days ago
- Politics
- The Sun
HAWANA 2025: Ministers appreciate media's role
KUALA LUMPUR: In conjunction with National Journalists Day (HAWANA) 2025 today, several Cabinet Ministers expressed their appreciation to media practitioners for their dedication and sacrifice in consistently upholding journalistic ethics in delivering news. Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir and his deputy, Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, in a post on the ministry's official Facebook page, expressed their gratitude to all journalists for their service, sacrifice and integrity shown in pursuit of the truth. 'Today, we celebrate journalists as the pulse of the nation's information! A day that honours dedicated individuals who deliver news and information to the public quickly, accurately and ethically. You are the eyes, ears and pen that shape public awareness. 'Journalists do not merely report but also shape thinking, uphold truth, influence public opinion, and strengthen democracy. In a world full of fast information and ethical challenges, the courage and integrity of journalists become the main defense against corruption and fake news,' he said. Meanwhile, National Unity Minister Datuk Aaron Ago Dagang, his deputy K. Saraswathy, and the ministry's deputy secretary-general Mohamad Sobri Mat Daud expressed their thanks to media practitioners for their continued commitment in disseminating information and news to all Malaysians. Through their official Facebook page, the top management and staff of the Plantation and Commodities Ministry (KPK) also extended their greetings on National Journalists Day. 'Our highest appreciation goes to all media practitioners who are pillars in delivering accurate and reliable information to society. 'You are unsung heroes who are always on the front lines despite facing many challenges and risks. Thank you for your dedication and contribution in shaping public thinking and strengthening national unity,' the post read. The Human Resources Ministry also expressed appreciation to journalists and media practitioners who are always at the forefront in delivering information that is accurate, timely and guided by integrity. 'Your dedication in connecting the voice of the people with policymakers is greatly appreciated. Continue your struggle to build an informed, sensitive and information-literate society,' it said. The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry, meanwhile, described media practitioners not just as news deliverers but as the main pulse of the ministry in delivering in delivering transparent, up-to-date and ethically sound information to build understanding, strengthen public trust and preserve social harmony. 'Continue to write with heart and report honestly to shape the nation's future,' it said. The Information Department, through its official Facebook page, also thanked all journalists and media practitioners who tirelessly convey the truth and shape the national narrative. The highlight of the HAWANA 2025 celebration will be held on June 14 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur (WTCKL), to be officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The event is expected to be attended by about 1,000 media practitioners from within and outside the country. HAWANA, organised by the Communications Ministry with the Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) as the implementing agency, will feature various events including a Pantun Festival on May 31 and a pre-launch event with strategic partners at Wisma Bernama on June 3, as well as a media forum jointly organised with the Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) on June 14.
