Putrajaya is slowly reforming as UiTM’s Bumi policy sparks debate on affirmative action.: Putrajaya reform steps – UiTM Bumi policy debate

1. Putrajaya reform initiatives
2. UiTM Bumi policy debate
3. Affirmative action policy analysis

The ongoing debate over enrolment at Malaysia’s exclusive Bumiputera higher education centre, Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM), is rooted in the country’s affirmative policies aimed at advancing the Malay community economically. Retired banker Tan Sri Nazir Razak credits the New Economic Policy (NEP) for significantly reducing poverty and expanding the Malay middle class. However, some observers argue that the policy needs to be reworked to be more inclusive. Despite promises of inclusivity in economic reforms, challenges remain for the current government to implement changes. The issue of racial exclusivity at UiTM was recently reignited, sparking discussions about opening up opportunities for non-Bumiputera trainee doctors in specialized programmes. Amendments to the Medical Act 1971 have been proposed to address these issues.

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Affirmative action policies have long been a topic of debate in Malaysia, particularly when it comes to advancing the economic status of the Malay population. The ongoing discussion surrounding enrolment at Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) has brought this issue to the forefront once again.

One of the key figures in the debate is retired banker Tan Sri Nazir Razak, who has highlighted the success of Malaysia’s New Economic Model (formerly known as the New Economic Policy) in reducing poverty and creating a professional Malay class. The policy has been credited with lifting many Malays out of poverty and creating opportunities for growth in various professional fields.

However, some observers believe that Malaysia’s affirmative action policies need to be reevaluated to ensure inclusivity and address the changing economic landscape of the country. Tan Sri Ramon Navaratnam, an original architect of the New Economic Policy, has expressed concerns that the policy has been distorted over the years, leaving many Malaysians, particularly those from Chinese and Indian backgrounds, behind.

Despite promises of inclusivity in economic reforms, there are challenges in implementing changes to affirmative action policies. The current government, comprising Pakatan Harapan and Barisan Nasional, may find it difficult to carry out electoral pledges that prioritize a needs-based approach over race-based policies.

The debate over affirmative action policies is further fueled by the issue of racial exclusivity at UiTM. Recent reports have indicated that the university is considering opening up its cardiothoracic surgery postgraduate program to non-Bumiputera trainee doctors. This move has sparked discussions about inclusivity and the need to ensure equal opportunities for all aspiring medical professionals.

The Health Ministry has stepped in to address the parallel pathway issue, with proposed amendments to the Medical Act 1971 to streamline the process of recognizing medical specialists who obtain their qualifications through alternative pathways. This move is seen as a step towards promoting inclusivity and fairness in the medical field.

As Putrajaya takes steps towards reform, the debate over UiTM’s Bumi policy continues to raise questions about the purpose and effectiveness of affirmative action policies in Malaysia. It is essential for policymakers to consider the changing needs of the population and work towards creating a more inclusive and equal society for all Malaysians.

Source: Malay Mail