Allegation That 30,000 Students Entered Public Universities Through Backdoor Is A Serious Accusation – Zambry

KUALA LUMPUR : The allegation that between 30,000 and 60,000 students entered public universities through the backdoor is a serious accusation that could undermine public confidence in the integrity of the country’s higher education system, said Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir.

He said the baseless allegation not only tarnishes the image of public universities, but also creates a negative perception as if deserving students’ opportunities had been seized for financial gain.

Zambry said such a narrative has significant implications on public trust, particularly among parents and students who are currently going through the admissions process into higher education institutions.

“The public university admissions system in this country is implemented through a clear and transparent mechanism, based on merit and the eligibility requirements that have been set,” he said in a statement here today.

He said if it were true that tens of thousands of students had entered universities through illegitimate channels, the party making the allegation should provide evidence and facts to support their claim.

According to him, such a serious accusation cannot be made arbitrarily, because in the academic world, every figure cited must have a source, methodology and basis that can be tested for its truth.

“On that consideration, several public universities have taken steps to lodge police reports to enable investigations to be carried out.

“This action is not intended to close the door to criticism or to restrict freedom of speech, but rather to ensure that every accusation made can be proven and accounted for through the appropriate legal process,” he said.

He also reminded that freedom of speech is not a licence to spread baseless accusations, because in the academic world, arguments must be answered with facts, while analyses must be supported by data and solid evidence.

He said those making the allegations must be held responsible if they fail to provide solid evidence to support the statements that have been issued.

Zambry said the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) has always been open to constructive feedback to improve the weaknesses in the country’s education system, but this does not mean that excessive accusations can be left unchecked without any basis.

“MOHE will continue to defend the integrity of the country’s higher education institutions and ensure that public confidence in Malaysia’s higher education system is not tarnished by baseless allegations,” he said.

Bernama