Among the thousands of comments left on my blog, I have noted a sizeable number from students or parents on the subject of scholarships for SPM achievers. Although I am unable to respond directly and frequently to you, I do take note of the issues you have raised, and will continue to pursue viable measures to address them.

Recently I announced that all students who do well in the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examination are eligible to receive Public Service Department (JPA) scholarships. It was decided that – irrespective of whether you are Malay, Chinese, Indian, or from any other ethnic group – all students will qualify for scholarships if you obtain 9A+ or more. This is a Government that will listen to the needs on the ground, and I am certain you agree that this merit-based opportunity indicates that my colleagues and I are very serious about bringing forth a transformation in line with the 1Malaysia concept.

Comment (192)

In the current poll on my blogsite, I invite my readers to name their academic qualification achieved when entering the workforce (you can vote here): Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia or lower; Diploma; Undergraduate degree; and Postgraduate degree.

Early results suggest that most respondents possess an SPM or lower, with those holding an undergraduate degree emerging in second place. Although this sample is not completely representative of the population, it has somewhat mirrored by the Statistics Department findings, showing that 77 percent of the Malaysian working population (or 60 percent of the entire nation) entered the workforce with up to SPM qualifications or equivalent in 2007 (see NEAC's NEM for Malaysia report).

Comment (193)

Sunday, May 16th is National Teacher's Day, Hari Guru. With pleasure, I dedicate this post to all in the teaching profession who continue to tirelessly educate and inspire our students. I am grateful for your efforts and urge you to keep up the good work. As we strive for 1Malaysia, and aim for developed nation status, the role of teachers is now more important than ever.

It is for this reason that Education is one of eight aspirational values comprising my 1Malaysia vision. When introducing and explaining this value last year, I spoke of the importance of having a society which places education and knowledge at the apex of everything that we do.

Comment (118)