The system aims to ensure the authenticity and equivalence of certificates submitted by applicants to meet the entry requirements of higher education institutions here.

“This centralisation effort is one of 10 key areas outlined under the (higher education transformation agenda) this year,” he said at a press conference at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) in Skudai, Johor, today.

Zambry said a committee has been established, with preliminary discussions under way to determine the most effective method to implement the system.

“The centralised system will utilise advanced algorithms and blockchain technology, enabling instant verification of qualifications and certificates submitted by international students.

“We will also collaborate with the countries of these applicants to ensure a smooth and secure admission process,” he said.

Zambry said while the Malaysian Qualifications Agency currently oversees international student admissions, the process is lengthy and needs improvement.

He highlighted nine other key initiatives under the ministry’s higher education transformation agenda aimed at improving various aspects of the higher education sector.

They include reviewing promotion criteria within the ministry, freedom of expression in universities under the Statutory Bodies (Discipline and Surcharge) Act 2000, and revisiting the Private Higher Education Institutions Act.