MOE studying co-curricular recognition for prison school students seeking university admission

The Education Minister of Malaysia, Fadhlina Sidek, announced plans to consider merit earned through participation in co-curricular activities, such as sports, for students at prison institutions when they apply for university admission. This move aims to provide these students with the opportunity to pursue higher education even after completing their Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and leaving the prison school.

Fadhlina emphasized that the merit earned in co-curricular activities could be taken into account when these students continue their studies at the next level. The Minister made this statement after the 17th Hijrah Kasih Programme organized by MOE in collaboration with the Malaysian Prison Department. In addition to co-curricular merit, the Ministry is also considering awarding skills certificates to students who undergo skills training while incarcerated.

These skills, such as sewing and food preparation, could prove beneficial upon their return to society. Fadhlina highlighted that students in prison schools achieved a 100% SPM pass rate for two consecutive years, demonstrating that their circumstances do not hinder their educational success. The Ministry is also exploring ways to ensure that these students keep pace with advancements in education, including through digital learning.

Fadhlina mentioned that the Ministry aims to have PAJSK scores recognized this year, enabling SPM candidates from 2027 to receive a 10% merit when applying for university admission. This recognition would acknowledge the students' sporting and co-curricular achievements, thereby enhancing their overall merit. Furthermore, the Ministry is studying the possibility of granting controlled access to the DELIMa (Digital Educational Learning Initiative Malaysia) platform to students in prison institutions.

This initiative would allow them to participate in online learning and access educational materials digitally, while ensuring they have access to learning facilities equivalent to those available to other students.