The Ministry of Higher Education is set to overhaul the General Studies Subjects (MPU) framework at universities and colleges to strengthen civic awareness, patriotism and a sense of national identity among students.
Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said the move reflects growing recognition of the importance of structured civic education in shaping responsible and engaged citizens.
He noted that MPU has often been viewed as a secondary subject, resulting in inconsistent delivery and limited impact across institutions.
“To build a resilient nation, education must go beyond technical knowledge. It must also instil values, identity and responsibility,” he said.
The revamped MPU curriculum is designed to be more comprehensive and relevant, integrating elements of civilisation, nationhood and contemporary societal challenges.
Developed by leading Malaysian scholars, the framework aims to connect theoretical understanding with real-world application through experiential learning and community engagement.
The reform aligns with a Cabinet mandate issued in August 2024 calling for stronger emphasis on nationhood and citizenship education amid concerns over weakening patriotic sentiment among youth.
The new MPU structure covers four key clusters, ranging from philosophy and history to entrepreneurship, sustainability and civic participation.
Zambry said the implementation will be closely monitored through a governance framework involving MOHE, MQA and higher education institutions to ensure quality and consistency.
He described the initiative as a long-term investment to produce graduates who are not only academically competent but also socially responsible and committed to national development.
