PUTRAJAYA: The US administration’s move to bar Harvard University from enrolling international students is regressive, says Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir.
He said the decision is harmful not only to the US but also to the global academic community and added that any policy restricting educational mobility would have negative repercussions.
"If this policy is implemented, it will impact the institutions and their own government. In our context, we regard this as regressive. We see how the existing system does not benefit the US or the countries wishing to send students there," he said.
He spoke after launching the 'Karisma: Aspiring Madani Leaders; The 3H Leadership Module' during the 2025 Karisma programme for Madani young leaders on Monday (May 26).
Zambry added that America became what it is today due to its education system and policies, which attracted global students.
"If that policy is adopted, we need further steps, as there are still many better institutions," he said.
On Sunday (May 25), the Higher Education Minister issued a statement, saying higher education should enable diverse people to learn with and from each other.
He said the country remains committed to the principles that give education its purpose and reach.
On Thursday (May 22), the US administration revoked Harvard University's ability to enrol international students.
It is forcing existing students to transfer or lose their legal status, while also threatening to expand the crackdown.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem ordered the department to terminate Harvard’s Student and Exchange Visitor Programme certification.
Noem accused the university of "fostering violence, antisemitism, and coordinating with the Chinese Communist Party."
Harvard said the move, affecting thousands of students, was illegal and amounted to retaliation.
The clampdown marks a significant escalation of the administration's campaign against the elite Ivy League university.
The move comes after Harvard refused to provide information that Noem had demanded about some foreign student visa holders.
