The continuation of a race-based quota system in higher education could perpetuate the notion that academic achievement is determined by ethnicity, religion and skin colour, said SUPP leader Lo Khere Chiang.
“The imposition of quotas sends the message that their (non-bumiputera) achievements are less worthy simply because they do not align with the predetermined quota distribution.
“This discourages excellence, stifles motivation and fosters a culture of mediocrity instead of excellence. It undermines the very essence of education itself,” he was quoted as saying by Dayak Daily.
Lo, who is also the Bukit Kitang assemblyperson, said the purpose of education is to provide all with an equal chance to hone their potential and the criteria for academic advancement should be individual skills, talents, hard work and dedication.
According to him, the current policy is no longer viable in a global society striving for anti-racism.
“It is time for Malaysians to reaffirm the non-discriminatory basis of the Federal Constitution and to uphold human rights principles which are strictly anti-racist,” he said.
The SUPP leader was commenting on Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s recent remark that the quota system for bumiputera students in education must be maintained to balance the number of students from the community in institutions of higher learning (IPT).
Anwar said if the system was not retained, it could cause an imbalance in the number of Malays - who form the majority of bumiputera - in IPTs, including in specific disciplines.
Education in Sarawak
Meanwhile, Lo highlighted the policies and initiatives to promote inclusivity, including in education, in Sarawak under the leadership of Premier Abang Johari Openg.
He noted that the state government supported Sarawakian students through Yayasan Sarawak, providing assistance for free education, including higher education, with the aim of creating a system that rewards talent, hard work, and dedication.
“Our Sarawak premier’s openness and inclusivity efforts in education and economic development is a way forward for a comprehensive progressive nation.
“Inclusive education benefits all students by providing them with an equal opportunity to learn and grow.
“It also helps to break down barriers between different groups of people and allows everyone to feel welcomed and valued in the educational setting. Inclusive education is the key to creating a more just and equitable society for everyone,” he added. - Mkini
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