Malaysia Denies Chinese Student Influx Limits Local University Placements

Minister Refutes Claims of Prioritizing Foreigners Over Malaysians

KUALA LUMPUR – Claims that an increase in Chinese students at Malaysian public universities is disadvantaging local applicants have been firmly rejected by the Higher Education Minister, Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir. He asserted that government policy prioritizes Malaysian students.

No Compromise on Admissions Policy

The Minister stated that the perception of Chinese nationals being admitted into foundation programs at the expense of Malaysians for financial gain is inaccurate. He emphasized adherence to the Central University Admission Unit’s (UPU) established policies.

“We have never compromised on the policies set by the Central University Admission Unit (UPU). The priority at public institutions of higher learning (IPTA) is always Malaysian students, because IPTAs are meant to provide education for Malaysian children first.”

—Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir, Higher Education Minister

Zambry Abdul Kadir was responding to concerns raised in Parliament by Datuk Seri Dr Wee Ka Siong, the MCA president. Dr Wee Ka Siong had alleged that Chinese students are gaining university admission due to their ability to afford fees, overshadowing Malaysian candidates.

Malaysia as an International Education Hub

Malaysia actively hosts international students from over 150 countries across both public and private higher education institutions as part of its global outreach strategy. The Minister highlighted that these students choose Malaysia due to confidence in its education system, a shift from previous preferences for Western countries.

This preference, he noted, is influenced by increasing geopolitical instability and competition elsewhere. According to the UNESCO Institute for Statistics, international student mobility has seen a global increase, with Asia becoming a more prominent destination.

Call for Constructive Dialogue

The Minister criticized the allegations for causing unwarranted public concern and fostering unproductive debates. He urged all stakeholders, including Members of Parliament, to engage in direct discussions and seek resolutions through constructive dialogue rather than politicizing the issue.

“I don’t want to see the creation of polemics that only do harm. When we make baseless accusations, we stir up unnecessary concerns.”

—Datuk Seri Zambry Abdul Kadir, Higher Education Minister

Zambry Abdul Kadir stressed the importance of avoiding baseless accusations that incite public anxiety and do not benefit the nation.