Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is advocating for the leaders of higher learning institutions to be granted the freedom to foster innovative ideas in the realm of education within the country. He emphasized the significance of this approach in enabling higher education organizations to compete effectively at both regional and global levels, ultimately yielding disciplined and high-quality graduates. The Prime Minister highlighted that while the Higher Education Ministry should coordinate programs to avoid conflicts or issues, providing universities with more autonomy in leadership is essential for the development of improved programs.
He addressed the Higher Education Ministry Strategic Discourse at the Kuala Lumpur World Trade Centre, attended by Higher Education Minister, Datuk Seri, Dr. Zambry Abdul Kadir. Drawing on his background as an academic, including roles as a teaching staff and visiting fellow at various universities, Anwar observed that the Western education system, while possessing certain advantages, also has its shortcomings, particularly in higher learning discipline. Emphasizing the importance of high discipline and earnest efforts in acquiring knowledge, the Prime Minister asserted that these qualities are essential for students in the country to enhance competitiveness, especially in the development of more high-quality and practical studies.
"I believe that without students maintaining high discipline, we cannot effectively compete globally in the field of education, particularly against countries like China, Taiwan, Finland, and others", he expressed. Addressing the language aspect, Anwar pointed out that while Malay is given priority in the teaching and learning process, institutions should also emphasize the importance of enhancing English proficiency among students starting now. Drawing comparisons with Indonesia and Thailand, he noted that despite these countries prioritizing their native languages, the English proficiency among their youth in local universities surpasses that of Malaysia.
