The Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) has introduced a Special UPUOnline Pathway targeting four specific groups as part of efforts to promote fairer and more inclusive access to public higher education institutions (IPTAs).
The ministry said the initiative focuses on candidates from the B40 income group, Orang Asli communities, athletes, as well as persons with disabilities (PWDs) and graduates from institutions under the Social Welfare Department (JKM). The move aligns with the government’s broader agenda to widen participation in higher education across diverse segments of society.
In a statement, MOHE said the special pathway aims to ensure students from disadvantaged backgrounds are not left behind due to socioeconomic challenges, personal circumstances or physical limitations.
“Through the Special UPUOnline Pathway, eligible candidates from the identified groups may receive placement offers without having to compete entirely on conventional meritocratic criteria, subject to meeting admission requirements and the availability of places,” the ministry said.
For applicants under the B40 category, eligibility requires registration in the eKasih system managed by the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) of the Prime Minister’s Department or recognition as recipients of Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) under the Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (LHDNM).
Orang Asli candidates must be registered with the National Registration Department (JPN). Meanwhile, the athlete category covers students registered with the Co-Curricular Sports and Arts Division (BSKK) of the Ministry of Education or the Strategic Planning Division (BPS) of MOHE, and who have represented their states at the national level.
Candidates classified as persons with disabilities or graduates from JKM institutions are required to be registered with the Social Welfare Department.
MOHE noted that the initiative reflects the MADANI Government’s commitment to building a more equitable and inclusive higher education landscape, ensuring that opportunities remain accessible to individuals from all walks of life.
-EDUCATION TVET ASIA