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SPM results out 2 weeks early to avoid late pre-varsity intake, says minister – Bernama

Putrajaya says Malaysian universities making gains despite poor ranking

Results for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) 2014 examinations will be announced earlier, on March 3, said Second Education Minister Datuk Seri Idris Jusoh.

He said announcing the results two weeks earlier than scheduled will allow students to register and complete their pre-university studies in the period set by the Private Institutions of Higher Learning (IPTS) before furthering their studies to Australia and New Zealand for the February 2016 intake.

Speaking at a news conference after chairing a meeting with the Malaysian Association of Private Colleges and Universities (MAPCU) and National Association of Private Educational Institutions (NAPEI), in Kuala Lumpur today, Idris said the decision was made after considering that SPM is a national exam which can influence government policies and regulations.

"The decision was made without putting aside requirements set by the ministry and Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) to maintain SPM standards as a national exam.

"Because students can enter private universities early, we have solved all issues regarding late intake, cost and distance in our discussion," he said.

The Education Ministry, through a letter dated May 23, 2014, reminded all private universities that forecast results cannot be used for student intakes.

In a press statement on September 30, the Education Ministry clarified that the compulsory requirement for intake into matriculation, pre-university, foundation and diploma courses require the actual SPM results according to Section 38 of the Private Higher Educational Institutions Act 1996.

The statement also said that private universities are fully aware that SPM is a requirement to pursue courses approved by the ministry.

The statement added that private universities are also aware that using SPM forecast results is an offence according to Section 40(1) of the Private Higher Educational Institutions Act 1996.

Idris said this decision is only applicable to this year's SPM results, while results for the next SPM batch will be decided later.

He said the decision also demonstrated the government's concern for the needs of the public and for the good of education.

"It was a difficult decision to make, but after discussions we decided that this is best for the educational institution, students and everyone involved," he added. – Bernama, October 7, 2014.