PUTRAJAYA: The development of Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) from Institut Teknologi Mara (ITM) has enabled students to realise their full potential, said former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.
He said under British rule, Malays were often overlooked in education, but the establishment of the Rural and Industrial Development Authority (Rida), which was Mara's precusor, brought focus on their education and professional development.
"During the British era, I was one of only seven Malay students in Malaysia admitted to King Edward VII College to study medicine. The rest were Chinese and Indians. There were no Malay students qualified for university.
"Initially, when Rida was established to teach Malays basic skills such as baking, it evolved significantly over the years.
"After Malaysia gained independence, Rida was transformed into Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara), and eventually, ITM, the precursor to UiTM, was founded," he said in his address to ITM/UiTM Graduates at the Perdana Leadership Foundation.
He said despite initial scepticism, the institution proved to be a success.
"People thought Malays were not capable, but when given the opportunity, they excelled. Even those with less-than-stellar school qualifications went on to prove themselves at university.
"I believe UiTM (now) has produced some of the best graduates in the country, and its role in elevating Malay students is undeniable," adding that the success of UiTM graduates, many of whom have gone on to excel in various fields, was proof that Malays could compete when given the right support and opportunities.
Dr Mahathir said UiTM was special to Malays and called on the younger generations to master knowledge.
"We must showcase the abilities of the Malay people. I hope we will all study hard so that we can master knowledge, as knowledge is crucial for our future," he said.
UiTM recently celebrated the silver jubilee on Aug 28.
But the university traces its lineage back to the Rida Training Centre established in 1956, which would then be developed into ITM in 1967.
It was created to train Bumiputera in business and commerce, as well as to support the development of rural communities.