KUCHING: Sarawak's free tertiary education scheme (FTES) does not require eligible students to have a pass in Bahasa Melayu, but they must meet the language requirement before graduating, says Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee.
The state Deputy Education, Innovation and Talent Development Minister said this is because Sarawak's four state-owned universities are governed by the Private Higher Educational Institutions Act 1996, which does not specify a passing grade in the subject as an entry requirement.
However, Section 41(5) of the Act stipulates that Malaysian students must achieve proficiency in the national language to graduate.
ALSO READ: Sarawak’s free tertiary education open to UEC holders, DUN told
"The law is silent on whether (a pass in) Bahasa Melayu is needed to enter private universities," he told reporters at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly's media room on Wednesday (Oct 14).
"But it clearly says that any Malaysian student who does not have a credit in SPM Bahasa Melayu must be fluent in the language before they graduate.
"They have to pass the Bahasa Kebangsaan A subject to be given their degree."
Dr Annuar was explaining the distinction between entry and graduation requirements at private universities, following criticism over his reply in the legislature on Tuesday (Oct 13) that Sarawakian UEC holders are eligible for FTES without requiring a pass in Bahasa Melayu.
He said FTES was offered to all Sarawakian students who were accepted for any of the 64 courses under the scheme at the four state-owned universities.
"If you gain admission for one of the 64 courses, you will be offered FTES.
"It has nothing to do with Sarawak not prioritising the national language or doing what we like.
"What is important is ensuring that eligible Sarawakian students benefit from FTES," he added.
