MCA laments objection to scholarships

2008/06/03

MCA laments objection to scholarships


KUALA LUMPUR: The MCA is saddened by Umno Youth education bureau chief Ahmad Ikmal Ismail's objection to the Public Service Department's move for a fairer distribution of scholarships to non-Bumiputera students who wished to study abroad.

Ahmad Ikmal on Sunday reportedly said that Umno Youth was against increasing the PSD's scholarship quota for non-Bumiputera applicants from 10 per cent to 45 per cent or 900 places.

The remaining 55 per cent of scholarships or 1,100 places would still go to Bumiputera students.

In a statement yesterday, MCA Youth education bureau chief Wee Ka Siong argued that similar to public university applications, government scholarships should also be approved based on meritocracy.

He said the small number of scholarships for non-Bumiputeras was one of the major factors that had contributed to the country's brain drain.

"Experience shows that non-Bumiputera students who are denied government scholarships would often be granted scholarships in foreign universities based on merit.

"As a result, the students would be obliged to work and stay overseas upon graduation," said Wee, who is deputy education minister.

He said the move by PSD should be lauded as it would create a more level academic playing field and, ultimately, better students.

"Outstanding Bumiputera students should not worry about being deprived of scholarships if their qualifications meet the criteria set by PSD," he added.

PSD automatically awards scholarships to applicants who obtain 10As or above in their SPM, provided that their total monthly family income is below RM1,500.