Door to US education not closed
PETALING JAYA: Malaysian students planning to further their studies in the United States can continue submitting their applications as usual, the US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur has confirmed.
However, the embassy stressed that there is a distinction between submitting an application and securing a visa.
'Student and exchange programme visa applicants may continue to apply, and it is important that they are fully truthful in their applications,' the embassy said when contacted yesterday.
This clarification comes amid reports that some Malaysian students are reconsidering their plans to pursue higher education in the United States, following policy changes introduced by the Trump administration.
Students worldwide, including Malaysians, have expressed anxiety as the United States reportedly prepares to temporarily suspend US student visa appointments.
Their concerns were heightened following reports that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had instructed US embassies to halt the scheduling of student visa interviews, as the administration moves to expand social media screening for applicants.
The US Embassy in Kuala Lumpur gave an assurance that no previously scheduled appointments have been cancelled.
'For those without an appointment, we recommend continuing to monitor for the availability of new slots,' it said.
Foreign students intending to study in the United States are typically required to attend an interview at a US embassy in their home country before a visa can be approved.
On May 22, the Trump administration banned Harvard University from enrolling international students. A US judge has subsequently blocked the move but the uncertainty among students remains.
The Harvard Club of Malaysia (HCM) has backed the university in opposing the move by President Donald Trump, saying:
'We at the Harvard Club of Malaysia fully support our alma mater's stand and affirm our commitment to openness, inquiry, and service — principles that not only define Harvard, but also our enduring role in society.'
'To isolate institutions of learning from the world is to undermine the very foundation of human progress,' said the HCM.
Yesterday, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said that Mara-sponsored students initially bound for further studies in US universities this year will probably be sent to the United Kingdom instead.
The United Kingdom seemed to be the best choice given its facilities and Mara's close cooperation with the universities there, he told reporters in London where he is on a four-day working visit.
Asked about Public Service Department-sponsored students who are slated to pursue their studies in the United States, Ahmad Zahid said he would discuss with the Chief Secretary to the Government and PSD director-general on the matter.
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