KUCHING: The federal government must prioritise local talented Malaysian students before helping any foreign students.
The newly appointed PBDSB information chief William Mangor (pic) was responding to Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s announcement on Wednesday that the government was willing to offer scholarships to Palestinian students who intend to further their studies at 12 Malaysian universities.
“There are many Malaysian students including from Sarawak who are struggling and need to cope with the fees and needs for their education.
“Most of them, especially in the interiors, don’t know where to get the right financial assistance.
“But the government is not focusing on them. Where is the intention for the students who have outstanding results?” asked William.
He added that PBDSB had believed that humanitarian aid would always bring good impact but the government should first manage their own backyard issues before handling others.
“Even the issue on PTPTN has yet to be resolved. Charity should begin at home.”
He also said that the government is not sensitive about the indigenous people who face various troubles when seeking for financial assistance.
“It is very difficult for low-income families to send their children to universities as the quota is limited.”
Meanwhile, Dr Mahathir’s announcement on Wednesday received protests from Malaysians.
According to a netizen, students who obtained 8A+ for their SPM were rejected from entering local universities and matriculation programme. Instead of looking into the matter, the prime minister announced that local universities would offer scholarships to Palestinians intending to study in Malaysia.
A Malaysian academician working in the Middle East said that he could not comprehend why the new government has to provide scholarships to foreigners to study in local universities while deserving Malaysians are denied these benefits.
“The governments of particular countries always prioritise their own citizens. But for some Malaysian leaders, they may be looking for fame and accolades,” he said on a social media site.
“Our PM has been telling the world that Malaysia’s debt is so great and yet they still can afford to give scholarships to foreigners.”
