Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir denied allegations that between 30,000 and 60,000 students secured admission to Malaysian public universities through "backdoor" or unauthorised means in a statement today[2026-06-17] [1, 2, 3, 4]. He described the claims as serious and unfounded accusations that could damage public trust in the country’s higher education system [1, 2, 3, 4].
Dr Zambry stressed that the admission process for public universities operates through a transparent and merit-based system with clear eligibility criteria. "The admission system for public universities in this country is implemented through a clear, transparent mechanism based on merit and the stipulated eligibility requirements," he said [3].
The Minister emphasized that freedom of speech does not justify spreading baseless accusations. "Freedom of speech is not a licence to spread unfounded accusations, stressing that academic arguments must be supported by facts, data and credible evidence," he added [1]. He also warned those making such allegations to take responsibility if they fail to back their claims with solid proof [1, 2, 3, 4].
Several public universities have filed police reports to launch investigations into the alleged backdoor admissions, signaling steps to verify the claims and maintain institutional integrity [1, 2, 3, 4].
The Ministry of Higher Education said it welcomes constructive criticism aimed at improving the national education system but will not tolerate excessive unproven allegations [1, 3, 4]. Dr Zambry further noted that any legal action being considered against those making unfounded accusations, pointing specifically to statements made by Jitra assemblyman Dr Haim Hilman Abdullah [1].
Today’s developments underscore the government’s effort to uphold transparency and accountability in university admissions as authorities pursue investigations prompted by the allegations.
