By Norrasyidah Arshad
SHAH ALAM, Jan 23 — The decision to place Form Six and matriculation students under the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) from next year is expected to strengthen Malaysia’s education system and better align it with future industry needs.
Educationist Tan Sri Alimuddin Mohd Dom said the move would allow the ministry to design a more suitable curriculum, while ensuring students are better prepared before continuing their studies at institutions of higher learning.
“This is a positive step for the national education system, as students will be exposed to teaching and learning methods that are more appropriate before progressing to the next level.
“Under MOHE, students will also have greater opportunities to explore various fields, as the requirements differ from the school system. This approach will better meet university needs.
“Schools currently focus on providing basic education, but once placed under MOHE, students can be channelled directly into specific fields such as economics, medicine or data statistics. Faculties can also make early preparations, which will ultimately benefit both students and the education system,” he told Media Selangor.
Overall, Alimuddin believes the National Education Plan 2026–2035 has the potential to elevate the quality of Malaysia’s education system, making it more relevant to global developments while strengthening the roles of both MOHE and the Ministry of Education.
The plan, launched recently by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, reflects the MADANI government’s commitment to building a quality, inclusive and globally competitive education system.
At the MOHE level, the 10-year plan serves as the main policy roadmap for the development of higher education in the country, replacing the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2015–2025 (Higher Education).
The plan was developed through a large-scale engagement process involving 181 local experts and 8,226 stakeholders, including academics, education leaders, public and private higher education institutions, industry players and community representatives from diverse backgrounds.
