AN MCA leader has expressed concern over the recent statements by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek about student admissions into the matriculation colleges, saying the handling of the situation has caused public confusion and concern, particularly for high-achieving students.
These students, who are now being told that they must apply for matriculation courses despite meeting the requirements under previous policies, has left them feeling uncertain about their treatment and the consistency of the government’s approach to education, said MCA education consultative committee chairman Ong Chee Siang.
“Fadhlina has stated that the policy for automatic admission into matriculation colleges for students with 10As remains unchanged,” he noted.
“However, she also mentioned that students with an A- grade must apply, instead of the previous stance on an automatic admission.
“This raises questions about the clarity and fairness of the policy. If the original criteria are still in effect, then students achieving an A- should, like those with A and A+ grades, be automatically admitted to matriculation programmes without the need for an additional application.”
Ong stressed that it is crucial for public figures, particularly the Education Minister, to provide clear and consistent information on policies that directly impact students’ futures.
“The Education Ministry had previously established admission criteria, which students relied upon when planning their academic paths,” he continued.
“Altering these criteria after examination results have been released not only causes unnecessary confusion but may also be perceived as unfair to students who are now required to navigate unexpected obstacles.”
Ong went on to point out that in 2024, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had made a firm commitment to the public, assuring students and parents that those achieving 10As would be automatically admitted.
“The recent change in policy raises important questions about whether this promise has been honoured. Was this shift discussed and approved by the Cabinet, or was it a decision made solely within the Education Ministry?” he questioned.
He further noted that the public’s frustration arose from the fact that these changes were only introduced after students had already received their results, adding that over 260 students who achieved 10A’s (including A-) have been excluded from the automatic admission list and now face the added burden of reapplying.
“The minister’s recent statement has only reinforced the perception of unfair treatment,” Ong said.
“The government must demonstrate transparency and integrity in addressing this issue. Restoring the 10A automatic admission policy, as initially promised by the prime minister in early 2024, would be a crucial step in rebuilding student trust and ensuring that all deserving students are treated fairly.” ‒ June 26, 2025
Main image: Bernama
