RPN: KPT To Hold Special Engagement Session With Student Leaders - Zambry

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 21 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) will organise a special engagement session with student leaders nationwide early next month as an initial step in implementing the Malaysian Higher Education Blueprint (RPTM) 2026-2035.

Its minister, Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, said the decision was reached during a meeting with the National Student Representative Council (MPPK) following the launch of the National Education Blueprint (RPN) 2026–2035 by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday.

The RPN is jointly implemented by KPT through the RPTM, while the Ministry of Education (KPM) leads the Malaysian Education Blueprint (RPM) 2026–2035.

“One of our main challenges following the official launch yesterday is how we are going to implement the plan, particularly in terms of student involvement at universities, polytechnics and community colleges,” he told reporters here today.

Zambry said he welcomed MPPK’s initiative to engage early by presenting initial views and proposing follow-up steps related to the implementation of the blueprint.

“I received them openly, and we discussed several next steps. The first step agreed upon was to organise a special programme involving student leadership from all universities,” he said.

He said the programme would involve about 20 key student leaders from each public university, in addition to representatives from polytechnics, community colleges and selected private higher education institutions.

“Through this session, we can interact in a relaxed and open manner while listening to their views on the implementation of the RPTM 2026–2035,” he said.

Meanwhile, MPPK president Muhammad Haykal Halid described the meeting as a proactive move to ensure student voices are heard from the early stages of the RPTM’s implementation.

“MPPK views the RPTM 2026–2035 as a crucial document that will directly impact students, higher education institutions and graduate employability,” he said.

“Therefore, we believe that a clear understanding of the plan and active student involvement are essential to ensure its implementation truly reflects the needs at the grassroots level,” he added.

Commenting on Deputy Minister of Higher Education Adam Adli Abdul Halim’s meeting with the Malaysian Students’ League (LMM), Muhammad Haykal said MPPK was not discouraged and did not view the matter as a dispute.

“We respect all views and remain open to engaging with any division within the ministry to discuss the RPTM and student welfare,” he said.

On Jan 19, Adam Adli reportedly agreed to accept LMM’s invitation to hold an open dialogue after the student group challenged him to meet students on campus.

Among the issues expected to be discussed are the rising cost of living, student welfare, university policies, the repeal of the Universities and University Colleges Act (AUKU), and the Student Declaration 2025.

-- BERNAMA