Malaysia rejects 110 teacher trainees over health, allows appeals

A total of 110 aspiring teachers have been denied admission to Malaysia's Master of Education program for 2026 due to health concerns. These candidates had previously secured offers from the Teacher Education Institute (IPG) but failed to meet the required health standards.

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Candidates concerned have passed the interview and received an offer before they were required to submit a health examination report for KPM to review.

Deputy Education Minister Wong Kah Woh acknowledged the public concern surrounding the rejections, which had circulated on social media. He explained that while these 110 individuals passed their interviews and received offers, their subsequent health reports were found to be below the established standards. Out of 6,392 candidates offered places, this group did not meet the health criteria.

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However, out of 6,392 candidates offered places, 110 were found to not meet the required health standards or criteria.

Wong clarified that the health screening procedure itself is not new, but the Ministry of Education (KPM) has opted to request health reports earlier in the admission process this year. Previously, health reports were only submitted upon arrival at the IPG campuses. This adjustment aims to identify potential issues earlier, preventing difficulties for both the students and the institutions. It also provides a clearer pathway for candidates to appeal their status.

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The health examination procedure has actually been implemented for a long time. The difference this year is that KPM requested the health report earlier before the candidate reports to their respective campus.

The deputy minister emphasized that these candidates are considered valuable assets to the nation's education system. He urged them to submit appeals for a reassessment of their health status. Wong also noted that specific health requirements are in place because future teachers must pass further health screenings and interviews by the Public Service Commission (SPP) before being appointed. The 6,392 candidates offered places are expected to report to their respective IPG campuses in August.

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Previously, there were cases where candidates had arrived at the campus but were found to not meet the health requirements, causing difficulties for all parties.