Zambry rejects ‘backdoor’ varsity entry claims

KUALA LUMPUR: Allegations that between 30,000 and 60,000 students were admitted to public universities through “backdoor” channels could undermine public confidence in the country’s higher education system, says the Higher Education Minister.

Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir (pic) warned that the accusation not only tarnishes the reputation of public universities but also creates the perception that opportunities meant for qualified students had been taken away for financial gain.

He said such a narrative could erode public trust, particularly among parents and students currently undergoing the admission process to higher education institutions.

“The admission system for public universities in this country is impleme­nted through a clear, trans­parent mechanism based on merit and the stipulated eligibility requirements,” he said yesterday, Bernama reported.

Zambry said if it were true that tens of thousands of students had entered universities through unauthorised channels, those making the allegation should provide evidence and facts to support their claims.

He said such allegations must be substantia­ted with facts, data and a clear methodology.

“Taking this into consi­deration, several public universities have lodged police reports to enable investigations to be carried out. This action is not intended to suppress criticism or restrict freedom of speech, but rather to ensure that every allegation can be proven and addressed through the proper legal process,” he said.

Zambry also reminded the public that freedom of speech is not a licence to spread unfounded accu­sations, stressing that acade­mic arguments must be supported by facts, data and credible evidence.

He said those making the allegations must take responsibility if they failed to produce solid evidence to support their statements.

Zambry added that the ministry remained open to constructive criticism aimed at improving the national education system, but excessive allegations without basis could not be left unchallen­ged.

He said the ministry would continue to safeguard the integrity of the nation’s higher education ins­titutions and maintain public confidence in the higher education system.