The Education Ministry has scrapped the requirement for private education institutions to maintain at least 30% Bumiputera equity ownership.
In a statement, the ministry said the decision was made following discussions with the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry.
The 30% Bumiputera equity threshold previously applied to private education institutions operating through Sdn Bhd companies under the Private Education Institution Policy Statement Book published in 2006.
The ministry said the requirement would no longer be imposed as a condition for such institutions.
It said the policy adjustment was made to reflect the current needs of the education sector and ensure participation remained open to all parties seeking to contribute to the country’s educational development.
The ministry also acknowledged the contributions of private education institution operators and said it would continue engaging with stakeholders in the interest of the education sector.
The decision came a day after the ministry said it would propose a review of tuition centre ownership rules to the Cabinet next week, following concerns over a proposed 30% Bumiputera equity requirement.
The issue had also drawn calls for clarification from MIC National Strategic Director Datuk C. Sivaraj.
On Saturday, Sivaraj urged the ministry to clarify the proposed requirement, saying efforts to increase Bumiputera participation in the economy should not come at the expense of the rights and equity of non-Bumiputera communities through licensing conditions, rulings or administrative regulations.
