Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the directive was part of the proposed review of general studies subjects (MPU) presented today by higher education minister Zambry Abd Kadir.

“I welcome efforts to improve the content, scope, and approach of MPU so that it becomes fresher, more relevant, and more effective in fostering national values and the spirit of patriotism,” he said in a Facebook post.

Anwar said the proposal was formulated after consulting various parties, including scholars, public universities, the Malaysian Qualifications Agency, the Higher Education Leadership Academy (AKEPT), the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, the defence ministry and other agencies.

He said the revised MPU framework would not only include public and private universities, but also extend to all training institutions nationwide.

Anwar added that the proposal would be presented to the Cabinet and it is aimed at nurturing a generation that is knowledgeable, principled and patriotic.