KUALA LUMPUR, May 14 -- The Cabinet has approved a new, alternative entry pathway for students from religious schools, private schools, and Chinese independent secondary schools into the nation's public universities (IPTAs).

In a statement today, the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) announced that the decision creates clearer and more inclusive access for students from outside the national education system, including holders of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC).

Under the new framework, two distinct pathways are now available.

First, students from these streams who possess a full Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) certificate may apply for any study programme offered through the standard UPUOnline system.

Their applications will...