Guaranteed placements a ‘step towards strengthening national unity’

PETALING JAYA: Guaranteed matriculation placements for students scoring 10As and above in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations, regardless of race or background, signals the government’s fairness towards all races, say unity and moderation advocates.

Malay moderate group G25 co-founder Tan Sri Mohd Sheriff Kassim said this was an encouraging statement as it meant the government is being fair to all regarding entry into matriculation.

“It is a positive step towards strengthening national unity,” said Mohd Sheriff, who was a former Finance Ministry secretary-general.

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G25 member Tawfik Ismail said the move displayed the government’s willingness to steer academic standards towards meritocracy.

It is also a sign that Malays are willing to compete on a level-playing field, he said.

“It’s good to challenge all students, especially the Malays, to compete fairly for academic achievements,” he added.

Tawfik said the move fulfilled the New Economic Policy’s founding fathers’ predictions that affirmative action is temporary, and more importantly, that the Malays are becoming more confident in their ability to compete.

“The Madani administration is affirming this trend,” he said.

National Unity Advisory Council member Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said the Prime Minister should ensure the move is implemented.

“The announcement is reassuring and a significant step in fostering a more inclusive and meritocratic education system while building racial unity.

“It signifies taking a bold and crucial step towards nation-building.

“We must be seen to be fair and just to all, irrespective of race and ethnicity, to ensure our nation’s educational advancement for the future,” he said.