Malaysia - The academic advocates opening the UiTM surgical course to non-Bumis.

Tajuddin Abdullah suggests that sticking to the current policy of excluding non-Bumiputera students might impede healthy competition and hinder the advancement of the medical field.

UITM Kampus Jengka, Pahang. (Eedafizie - Shutterstock)

PETALING JAYA - An academic has expressed concerns regarding the exclusion of non-Bumiputeras from Universiti Teknologi Mara's cardiothoracic surgery postgraduate program, stating that it could impede progress and development in the field. Tajuddin Abdullah, a fellow of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia, emphasized that maintaining this practice might restrict healthy competition and hinder the growth of the medical profession. Furthermore, it could overlook the potential talents and diverse perspectives offered by individuals of other ethnic backgrounds.

As a graduate of UiTM himself, Tajuddin highlighted the importance of opening educational institutions like UiTM to all students, emphasizing that it can contribute to national integration and unity. "I disagree with the notion that UiTM enrollment should be restricted to only Bumiputera students," he told FMT. "Malaysia is a multicultural society, and it is crucial to embrace diversity and provide equal opportunities for all Malaysians."

Professor Dato’ Dr Mohd Tajuddin Abdullah FASc, Fellow Academy of Sciences Malaysia (Academy of Sciences Malaysia)

"Allowing non-Bumiputeras to enroll in UiTM's cardiothoracic surgery program can yield numerous advantages for the national healthcare system. It would expand the pool of talented and proficient cardiothoracic surgeons, resulting in a reduced patient-to-surgeon ratio. Consequently, this could lead to shorter waiting times for patients in need of such surgeries, thereby enhancing overall healthcare services.

The diversification of the student body could introduce fresh perspectives and foster innovative approaches within the field, potentially driving advancements in cardiothoracic surgery.

Ultimately, a more diverse and well-trained healthcare workforce would be better equipped to address the healthcare needs of the country's population, enhance the sustainability and affordability of the Malaysian healthcare system, and bolster the medical tourism industry."

Tajuddin made these remarks in response to a report in the Kosmo newspaper, wherein Zulkifli Mohamed, the president of the UiTM general staff union, expressed disappointment regarding suggestions to temporarily open enrollment for postgraduate medical studies to non-Bumiputeras.

According to a report by health news portal CodeBlue, UiTM was reportedly willing to "temporarily" accept non-Bumiputera trainees from parallel pathway programs into its cardiothoracic surgery program. Dr. Raja Amin Raja Mokhtar, from UiTM's medical faculty, proposed this as a solution to address the non-recognition of qualifications held by some trainees.

However, Higher Education Minister Zambry Abd Kadir stated that there have been no discussions on this matter.

Reflecting on his personal experiences, including having non-Malay teachers and lecturers throughout his educational journey, Tajuddin emphasized that individuals from diverse backgrounds can contribute to a comprehensive and inclusive learning environment.

He added, "Embracing our racial diversity within our education system can foster national integration, unity, and social cohesion, thus creating a more harmonious and inclusive society."

Source : FMT