Take on challenges positively, Zambry tells students

By the Editorial Team · Sunday, September 20, 2026

Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir encouraged students to face academic challenges with a positive mindset while highlighting the importance of balancing education with personal character development during a tuition fee sponsorship presentation for 27 top STPM 2025 performers. The sponsorships, which have expanded to support 30 students across 19 public universities in various fields, aim to ensure equitable access to higher education regardless of background.

Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir urged students to approach their studies with determination while maintaining a balanced and positive mindset. Speaking at a tuition fee sponsorship presentation ceremony on September 7 at the Ministry of Higher Education in Putrajaya, he emphasized the importance of enjoying the learning process rather than succumbing to pressure.

Dr Zambry highlighted that challenges are an unavoidable part of life and should be approached constructively. “In life, there must be challenges. But to make us better, we must take on the challenges positively. If we take on the challenges negatively, that is where mental health issues come in,” he said.

He also underscored the need for students to balance academic achievement with personal development, advocating a "humanity-centric" approach to education. The minister stressed that education should not only aim for excellence but also cultivate good character, morals, and personality. “You can fly high, but at the same time, you need to remain grounded. What is the purpose of education if you pursue your education to the highest possible level but, at the end of the day, it is not accompanied with good character?” Dr Zambry remarked.

During the event, 27 top performers of the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) 2025 cohort received tuition fee sponsorships to pursue bachelor’s degree programmes at 18 public higher education institutions (IPTAs). These sponsorships cover a range of disciplines including medicine, engineering, and education.

The sponsorship initiative was initially offered to 18 students in June, and was subsequently expanded to include an additional 12 students, bringing the total beneficiaries to 30 from 19 IPTAs. Dr Zambry described the recipients as valuable assets to their families and the nation, emphasizing that the sponsorships are designed to provide educational opportunities regardless of students’ backgrounds. “We want to ensure access by providing learning opportunities for everyone regardless of their background, because all of them are our Malaysian children,” he said.

The minister also took the opportunity to congratulate the parents of the students for their ongoing support, calling the day a proud moment for the families involved.

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