If you still think STPM is just the “backup plan” after SPM, the Education Minister wants you to think again.
During an event on May 27, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek stressed that the Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) is academically equal to international programmes like Cambridge A-Levels, according to Malaysia Gazette and Oriental Daily News.
She added that over 2,000 universities worldwide recognise the qualification.
STPM is not a second-tier choice. It’s globally respected and offers students a clear path to higher education,” she told reporters.
She also said the rebranding of Form 6 is part of the Ministry of Education’s (MOE) larger strategy under the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013–2025, aimed at making the post-secondary route more inclusive, competitive, and high-quality.
500 Form 6 students to receive monthly aid under new CSR programme by Farm Fresh
The Ministry of Education (MOE) is stepping up efforts to support students facing financial struggles and this time, with the help of a caring corporate partner.
Speaking at SMK Tun Syed Sheh Barakbah in Nibong Tebal, Penang, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said that one of the biggest challenges in education today is multidimensional poverty, which continues to affect many children across the country.
This refers not just to financial hardship, but also limited access to opportunities, support, and resources.
However, she noted that MOE is fortunate to have “empathetic and committed partners” like Farm Fresh Berhad, which has launched a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative specifically for Form 6 students.
Monthly allowance for 500 B40 students
Under the newly launched programme, 500 Form 6 students from low-income (B40) families will receive a monthly cash allowance to help ease their education-related expenses.
“This initiative is a meaningful step in addressing student welfare while reinforcing the value of Form 6 education,” said Fadhlina.
