BANDAR ENSTEK, Negeri Sembilan, 10 June 2026 (The Capital Post) – The Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) is intensifying efforts to ensure Persons with Disabilities (OKU) enjoy equitable access to higher education through policies that translate into meaningful action across institutions.
Higher Education Minister YB Dato’ Seri Diraja Dr. Zambry Abd Kadir reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment while officiating the closing ceremony of the Strategic Leadership Programme for OKU Inclusivity in Public Higher Education Institutions at the Higher Education Leadership Academy (AKEPT) here.
According to a Facebook post by Kementerian Pendidikan Tinggi, Zambry said policies should not remain as planning documents without implementation that delivers real impact to the intended beneficiaries.
He stressed that the inclusivity agenda must be reflected through practical measures that improve accessibility, facility usability and learning opportunities for all students.
The minister said KPT is currently formulating the future direction of higher education with a more comprehensive approach that takes into account the needs of various categories of persons with disabilities.
He also emphasised that higher education institutions must move beyond mere compliance and cultivate a culture of inclusivity throughout their campus ecosystems.
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According to Zambry, the availability of disability-friendly pathways and appropriate support facilities serves as a key indicator of an institution’s commitment to implementing the inclusivity agenda effectively.
He further urged both public and private higher education institutions to avoid overly rigid approaches when considering applications from students with disabilities, noting that many possess significant potential to succeed academically and professionally.
The programme, organised by AKEPT in collaboration with Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia (UIAM), brought together higher education leaders to strengthen understanding and implementation of inclusive practices within the sector.
Among those present were Director-General of Polytechnic and Community College Education Dr. Shamsuri Abdullah, AKEPT Director Prof. Dr. Harshita Aini Haroon, UIAM Disability Services Unit Head Prof. Dr. Ruzita Mohd Amin, Major General Dato’ Yusri Anwar (Rtd), vice-chancellors of public universities, deputy vice-chancellors, and senior officials from KPT and higher education institutions.
The initiative reflects KPT’s continued commitment to fostering a more inclusive higher education ecosystem that empowers students of all abilities to pursue academic excellence and contribute meaningfully to society. – The Capital Post.
