By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Jan 20: Courses on the Federal Constitution and Malaysian History will be made compulsory for Malaysian students in all local universities from this year, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced today.
He said the requirement will apply to both public and private higher education institutions, as part of efforts to strengthen national identity, civic awareness and understanding of the country’s foundations.
“I do not think it is reasonable for a Malaysian who does not understand the country’s Constitution, or who has no knowledge of Malaysia’s history,” he said in his speech at the launch of the National Education Development Plan (RPN) 2026–2035 at Dewan Perdana, Putrajaya International Convention Centre.
Anwar clarified that while Bahasa Melayu and History are not compulsory subjects at the tertiary level, universities will introduce restructured general studies courses, taught in Bahasa Melayu, covering constitutional matters and Malaysian history.
“Starting this year, we will introduce revised general courses, taught in Bahasa Melayu, in all public and private universities for Malaysian students, focusing on constitutional issues and the history of Malaysia,” he said.
He stressed that the courses are meant to provide basic and essential knowledge, without placing excessive academic burden on students, particularly those in specialised fields.
“This is not to overburden students in disciplines that require greater focus, but it is not reasonable for Malaysian students to graduate without understanding the Constitution and the nation’s history,” he said.
The Prime Minister said the move is part of a broader education reform agenda aimed at reinforcing national values and unity, while ensuring the education system remains globally competitive.
“If we want to safeguard this country, every Malaysian must at least master the fundamentals of our Constitution and history,” he added. — DayakDaily
