Non Entry Into Um Is Not End Of The World Other Pathways Are Available Edward Wong

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Letter to Editor
AMID all the brouhaha over STPM high-achiever Edward Wong who failed to secure a spot in Universiti Malaya’s (UM) accounting degree programme despite a 4.0 CGPA and near-perfect score in extracurricular activities, one must wonder: why weren’t alternate pathways considered?
Certainly, one would have thought that his exemplary results would have been sufficient for him to gain entry into the hallowed halls of UM.

But given his stated ambition is to become an accountant, why weren’t alternate pathways considered?
As a non-Bumiputera, one should already know that the system is stacked against you with places at public tertiary institutions very much the preserve of certain races.
This is in spite of the Higher Education Ministry’s claim that places are given based on merit and that competition is supremely stiff for the limited places.
Wong may feel that it is his right as a Malaysian to be offered a place in the country’s top university, especially with his results. Again, you should know that places are at a premium and that many other high achievers are also missing out.

What you should have done was to apply for scholarships to study in private universities. Failing that, go for study loans or look for other means to reach your goals.
The various professional qualifications such as Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales (ICAEW) and ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) are also available to make that dream come true.
This was indeed the advice proffered by commenters online who were reacting to this news on the Vanakkam Malaysia Facebook page.


It was also pointed out that it was personal attitude, rather than the alma mater, that mattered. The commenter further added that UiTM’s accountancy programme was more well-established than UM.

One commenter even chided Wong for behaving like a “crybaby” for throwing his toys out of the pram for not getting his own way. “Welcome to the real world” was the message.

There is still a happy ending for Wong as MCA President Datuk Seri Wee Ka Siong has announced that Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) and Tunku Abbdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) will offer the young man a full scholarship to fulfill his dreams.
One thing to note from this entire episode—life is cruel, harsh and unfair. How one handles it is the true barometer of a person’s fortitude and will surely be indicative of future successes.
So, if one avenue is closed to you, by all means seek out another.
Qualified non-UM book keeper
Subang Jaya
The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of  MMKtT.
- Focus Malaysia

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