Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Higher Education Blueprint (RPTM) 2026-2035 is set to enhance governance in higher education institutions (IPTs) through a focus on accountability, transparency, and impact, ensuring its implementation benefits students and stakeholders, stated the Higher Education director-general.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Datuk Prof Dr Azlinda Azman emphasized that while universities enjoy autonomy, ongoing monitoring is crucial to ensure initiatives under RPTM are effectively translated into action at the institutional level. She highlighted the need for accountability alongside autonomy, with the Department of Higher Education (JPT) playing a key role in monitoring and engaging with stakeholders to ensure consistent implementation across all IPTs.
Azlinda, speaking on the Bernama TV programme Apa Khabar Malaysia, mentioned that RPTM was developed after a comprehensive assessment of the existing system and outlines 10 strategic leaps, 41 strategies, and 128 initiatives, with a focus on the first three years (2026-2028). The curriculum-focused approach aims to produce holistic, future-ready graduates who can contribute to national development.
The core of RPTM is an outcome-based approach aimed at improving graduate quality, employability, and competitiveness in a challenging job market. Azlinda assured that periodic monitoring with measurable indicators will assess policy effectiveness, incorporating technology and artificial intelligence (AI) for enhanced efficiency.
A key reform under RPTM is strengthening university collaboration with industry to ensure curricula remain relevant, providing students early exposure to the workforce through industrial training and teaching factory concepts on campuses. This includes hands-on training opportunities, particularly in universities under the Malaysian Technical University Network.
RPTM also introduces a lifelong learning approach, offering modular learning, credit transfer between universities and industry, and the expansion of micro-credentials, making higher education more accessible and flexible. Azlinda noted that this approach aligns education with future economic needs, enabling students to pursue their studies according to personal requirements.
On internationalisation, RPTM aims to enhance the global standing of local universities, emphasizing quality over rankings. The achievements of local universities on the international stage attract foreign students and showcase Malaysia's higher education capabilities.
Azlinda concluded by stating that RPTM reflects the government's commitment to making higher education a driver of national progress, social mobility, and shared prosperity, supported by various ministries and relevant agencies.