LETTERS: MyBrain15, introduced in 2011, was an ambitious and commendable government initiative aimed at nurturing and supporting postgraduate students.
The programme offered scholarships and loans to Malaysian students pursuing master's and doctoral degrees in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and other crucial fields.
The programme was instrumental in encouraging students to pursue higher education and advanced research, contributing to the growth of key sectors vital to Malaysia's progress.
With the programme's discontinuation in 2021, Malaysia risks losing the gains achieved through MyBrain15.
Human Resources Minister V. Sivakumar said Malaysia's brain drain has reached a level that has got the government "taking it seriously".
He said the brain drain rate stands at 5.5 per cent of the population, higher than the global average of 3.3 per cent.
"Malaysia has highly skilled and talented individuals seeking better opportunities abroad," he added.
So reviving MyBrain15 is essential for several reasons:
FIRST, economic competitiveness. Nations must invest in their human capital to remain competitive. MyBrain15's revival would help Malaysia secure its place as a knowledge-driven economy, attracting investments and fostering sustainable development;
SECOND, bridging the skills gap. Certain industries and sectors face skill shortages. Reintroducing MyBrain15 can address these gaps by encouraging students to pursue advanced degrees in these fields;
THIRD is about research and development. To be at the forefront of innovation, Malaysia must encourage research and development.
MyBrain15 provides support for students to engage in research that leads to discoveries and advancements;
FOURTH, cultivating homegrown experts. By offering financial incentives to local talent, MyBrain15 cultivates a pool of homegrown experts who can contribute to Malaysia's growth and development without the fear of losing them to opportunities abroad; and
FIFTH, long-term vision. Education and research take time to yield substantial results. By reinstating MyBrain15, the government demonstrates its commitment to a long-term vision for Malaysia's future.
Education has always been the cornerstone of a progressive nation.
MyBrain15, with its emphasis on empowering Malaysia's future through education has proved its worth.
By investing in human capital, fostering research and innovation, and addressing skills gap, MyBrain15 can serve as a catalyst for a brighter and more prosperous future for Malaysia and its people.
DR JUAN RIZAL SAARI
Senior lecturer,
Universiti Teknologi Mara, Melaka
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times