“I WANT to be a doctor.” Ask any primary school child about his or her ambition and more often than not, this is the answer you will get. And if the high demand for places in medical programmes at local universities is any indication, many do not outgrow this dream.
Every year, large numbers of high-achievers apply to do medicine not only due to academic interest but also because of the status the profession gives and the promise of a secure career. Entry is thus extremely competitive, with programmes offered at only seven public universities and five private institutions in Malaysia.