Zahid, who chaired a coordination meeting today among MRSM, SBP, and other specialised schools under the education ministry, said the decision marked a significant milestone in the history of Malaysia’s boarding school system.

The new system, to be implemented from next year, will involve a single application and one placement offer per student, which Zahid said was part of the government’s efforts to create a more structured, focussed, and equitable education system.

Zahid said that previously, some students received multiple offers and declined some of them, resulting in unfilled seats and missed opportunities for other deserving students.

“Through this unified system, placements will be more equitable and inclusive, especially for high-achieving students from rural areas and low-income families,” he said at a press conference.

“This will prevent overlapping offers and ensure that each available spot is filled by students who are truly eligible.

“I am confident that this is a step forward in restructuring the ecosystem of our boarding school system, making it more efficient and providing equal opportunities for all Malaysian children.”

Zahid said the existing policy, where 60% of intakes consists of students from B40 families, would be maintained.

He also said priority would continue to be given to applicants from rural areas and the urban poor, in line with the government’s aim to strengthen social mobility through education.

Student selection will still be based on the Pentaksiran Kemasukan Sekolah Khusus, using a streamlined online platform shared by Mara and the education ministry.

Private school students not listed in the ministry’s student database can still apply through the MyMRSM system.