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Sunday, January 12, 2014

Who Ever Said That Matrix Was Easy? Malaysia Matriculation (Matrikulasi) Experience Sharing

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Who Ever Said That Matrix Was Easy?

Written by Max Ng, former Kolej Matrikulasi Negeri Sembilan (KMNS) student.

The Malaysian public has been fed with the false information that the matriculation program is a very easy program that is intended to produce large quantities of mediocre students and that STPM is a very much harder program and the students graduating from STPM are of higher quality than those who graduated from matriculation. Well let me tell you the true story of the life of a matriculation student. I am not here to degrade or belittle STPM but rather to shed some light and reveal to the general public that matriculation is not as easy as it seems.

After graduating from KMNS and becoming a university student, I noticed that when people started comparing matriculation and STPM, they would always say that we had it easy while they had two years of hell and every time I hear someone say this, I would always say that if you were never in matriculation, you will never understand what hell is.

Kolej Matrikulasi Negeri Sembilan Asrama Cendekia
KMNS Asrama Cendekia
Yes, we got our 4.0s relatively easier due to the fact that the marks we needed to score to obtain an A would be relatively lower than what our STPM counterparts would need to score to get an equivalent A but it is very untrue that our examinations and papers are much easier. Our examinations and the syllabus that we had to go through was tough. Yes, the syllabus is shorter and more simplified than the STPM syllabus but there is also a reason to this and the reason is that our program is a very short one when compared to the 2 years our STPM counterparts had to fight through.

Kolej Matrikulasi Negeri Sembilan Asrama Blok Tutoran
KMNS Blok Tutoran
In matriculation, holidays are short and nearly non-existent. We spend most of our time in places far from home confined within the walls of our colleges with curfews that would put an army boot camp to shame. The only time we were ever allowed to go out is during weekends and we had a very strict and short curfew. Even if we did have extra time to go out, there would not be any place to go to. The nearest city from my college was a very long and expensive taxi ride to Seremban. So we would just stay in college for the weekends and study. There is no entertainment and hence all we do everyday is study with some occasional exercise in the evenings but other than that we would be studying every single day.

Kolej Matrikulasi Negeri Sembilan Asrama Bilik Gerakan JPP
KMNS Asrama Bilik Gerakan JPP
Speaking of curfews, we also had a lot of rules, and when I say a lot, I really do mean A LOT. It's analogous to a boarding school if u will and the rules we had ranges from the down right ridiculous to the weirdest.

We had to wear formal attire (yes, with a tie and all) to class everyday. We had to walk from our dorms to the lecture halls and from the lecture halls to the labs and from the labs to the tutorial rooms and the moment when class ends (at 5pm) we'd be covered in sweat from top to bottom. The distance from one location to another is also ridiculously far and no matter rain or shine, we still had to go to class.

Kolej Matrikulasi Negeri Sembilan Asrama Bestari
KMNS Asrama Bestari
You could say that matriculation students were spoon-fed, but the most help that we'd receive are lecture notes and some exercise questions. To those out there who still think that we matriculation students receive the exam papers prior to exams, let me burst your little bubble right now, we DO NOT receive exam papers prior to our exams.

Our classes start at 8am and end at 5pm every day. Sometimes we would have extra classes in the early mornings and also late at night just to cover our lectures. Being tired is no longer a feeling, it has become a way of life.

KMNS Residential College Bus Transport (Asrama Bas)
KMNS Bus
My college was in a very rural place which seems very very far from civilisation and hence we would see tons of wildlife in the college. After a downpour, there would be tons of bugs everywhere. There would be cats everywhere. Monkeys now and then. The water supply and electric supply would sometimes be cut off all of a sudden and we would have to shower with mineral water or go stay in a motel in the small town 10 minutes from college. Water shortages will not last for an hour or two but for days.

Kolej Matrikulasi Negeri Sembilan Asrama Balai Pengawal
KMNS Asrama Balai Pengawal
Times get even tougher when home sickness strikes. The reason that we seem so laid back whenever we are back during our short breaks is because we rather enjoy time at home than think about anything else and when the time comes for us to go back to college, that feeling of despair deepens and makes you want to give up, it makes you think why have you chosen this path in the first place.

Kolej Matrikulasi Negeri Sembilan Asrama Astaka
KMNS Asrama Astaka
There are so much more bittersweet experiences that I would like to share with everybody but I'm afraid that if I continue, this would get very boring and veer off the main reason I was writing this paragraph in the first place but before concluding everything, I would like to tell you the feeling of freedom that hits you when you graduate from matrix. That feeling that it is finally over. It completely overwhelms you but again you will not fully grasp this feeling if you have not been through it yourself.

Kolej Matrikulasi Negeri Sembilan Asrama Jauhari
KMNS Asrama Jauhari
We had it rough too. Maybe not so rough in our examinations but in our daily lives spent there. It is mental and physical torture that we had to endure that made our lives there a living hell. We did not have the comforts of home to go back to after a day at school. We could not see meet our families when we needed them most. We did not even have a familiar bed to sleep in at nights when you feel totally worn out. This is our story. This is the true story. With this I hope that we can stop comparing matriculation and STPM. There is always two sides to a coin. If you do not understand it then do not hate it. Comparison is the death of joy. - Mark Twain

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Comments
145 Comments

145 comments:

  1. Thanks for sharing this, proud of you! Good job!

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  2. Just ask the 3000+ 4-flat scorers in Matrik 2013 to sit for STPM and you can tell how many As will they score despite their effort. Have you ever been informed that how many STPM scholars in 2013 have the chance for IPTAs despite their full As, moron!

    1 Malaysia, 2 Standards

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    Replies
    1. Good job,bro! I believe that those Matrix students just want to get attracted by us:Form 6 and A-level students to think that they are not low-standard citizens just because they could get 4.0 damn easily.

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    2. You spoke our hearts out. TS whining like a baby.

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    3. Its one and a half years if stpm and not 2. Half a year makes a difference and not all stpm students stay at home while doing their form 6. Some travel a distance and leave behind all the comfort they have jastnto make sure they get a proper education. Not mentioning the expenses which costs .. also not touching on the quality of education.

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    4. and for the attire part , in form 6 we also need to wear formal attire.

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    5. and the things that you were suffering during matriculation are just nothing.

      Homesick: can u ensure that in future when u step up to the society, u will work at / nearby to your hometown??

      Freedom: can u ensure that the place u work in the future is well-developed and are u sure that u can get the freedom u want when u are working in the future??


      8am-5pm: are you sure that in the future, your working hour is just within 8-5??? Even the schooling time for form 6 is only around 7am-1pm, but I believe most of the form 6 students will study, make discussion and revision until night.

      Come on la. The quality of education between matriculation and form 6 is totally different. The system is unfair. If government couldn't come out with fair education system, please don't waste people money in establish Talent Corp la, talented people will still leave the country.

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    6. Yes, so, blame the government. Why the discrimination towards matriculation students? It's true matriculation exam papers are easier with a shorter syllabus. That's not determined by their students. That's determined by the government. So, blame it on them.

      You may say that matriculation students are benefiting from this inequality. True. But if it is just for that reason that you are biased towards them, then you need to ask yourself what are you really complaining about: not benefiting from the inequality or the irresponsibility of the government for creating such an inequality. Because if it's the latter, all the butthurt about matriculation students having it easy would not exist.

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    7. so what ? who care !!!
      u form 6 ? u matrix ?? is that important..speechless

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    8. TRUEEE...people are talking about the workload,not other factors such as homesick,buggies,strict rules and lesser hols..total CRAP!!!
      if matriculation isn't as easy as STPM ,why don't you opt for STPM instead?

      Delete
    9. I will not mind to sit for stpm to show my capability. For your information, in my batch, most of the matric students (i mean chinese) are the top students from their secondary schools. So there is no doubt about our quality, another truth i wan to share with u guys is, im currently studying dentistry, my batch has a few stpm students too, not really sure about the majority stpm students, but i can see for medicine and dentistry, matriculation n stpm students are jus as competitive as each other, in fact, stpm students in my course are not top students. Actually all the pre-u courses( a level, matric, stp) are nothing compared to medicine and dental, i mean NOTHING. Notes for 1 month in dentistry is more than notes for 1.5 years and one year in matric. So grow up and look forward, dun compare meaningless things anymore.

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    10. Besides the curriculum in STPM which is one of the world's toughest, the killing part of STPM is the impossibility to score high in co-curricular activities. In Matrik, inter dorm/hostel contests are considered school level whereas competitions between 2 matrik school are considered state level. Karnival Kokurikulum Matrikulasi (Kakum) from all matrik schools (just guess how Matrik schools we have) is taken as national level. No wonder my friends who scored prefect 10 in their koko points and they felt embarrassed because they're neither national players nor Dato' Lee Chong Wei and Pandelela.

      1 Malaysia, 2 Systems

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    11. I know there're some bright Matrik students from all races but nothing is proud about Matrikulasi. It's one of the sub-standard exams in the world by our BN government's failed policy to reward mediocre over meritocracy. Why BN government is so afraid of smart brains? Let's face the serious brain drain problem in this country. Be globalised and competitive. My suggestion is to have a single common entrance exam like developed countries for all students vying for all IPTAs which are funded by taxpayers' money. After all, we still have UiTM and MARA for Malay/Bumi students if they're still behind.

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    12. The difference between the matriculation and STPM is you can apply for universities in singapore which are moslty high ranking in the world that is more competitive and high academic requirements with your STPM result not your matriculation because the standard of STPM is much higher and reliable as compare to matriculation(just for local universities).Undoubtedly matriculation is a racial education policy to control the amount of students(non-bumiputera),so matriculation is incomparable to STPM

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    13. The author also mentioned, they have "Lecture notes". What STPM students get? Study a thick text book themselves and make their own notes. We have to discover the knowledge from thick book, unlike Matrix students, lecture notes provided. Perhaps your syllabus are also tough, but according to my experience with Matrix friends, some topics you all didn't learn at all; but STPMs cover all, all topics are equally important. Furthermore, you are easier in getting As as you also admitted the bench mark for A is very much lower than STPM. Don't post ridiculously! If you think STPM and Matrix are equally tough and equal standard, then why overseas universities recognize certificates of STPM, A-Level and Diploma, BUT NOT for Matriculation? Try to think and figure it out the reason!

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    14. Just ask yourself… why u can't get into matriculation?

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    15. Because im not lucky. matriculation does not consider results pun. my friend 4A in spm pun dapat lah.

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    16. It's funny how you all STPM students are complaining about how great your course is when some of you can't even speak proper English. Look at how you tried to convey your thoughts. Jokes on you I guess?

      It doesn't matter what course you're doing or what you're working as, it's what you do with it. Indeed they say STPM is 'harder' but who ARE you to judge? Have you taken on both courses before?
      :" Oh, it's because when I'm in UNI, students from matriculation seem to struggle more. Bla bla bla"
      Are you shitting me? You're making a statement from your this? Your own opinion? Give us a break( matriculation students) and stop whining about how easy our course is because at the end of the day you know you did not get into matriculation in the first place :P

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    17. actually need not to argue so much...the standards are actually based on students' attitude and efforts...if a student willing to work hard, then no matter stpm or matrik, then he/ she wil still succeed..

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    18. Dude,the problem isnt on speaking proper English.

      Delete
    19. For bright students, any pre-u programme would not be a problem but for average students, they tend to perform better in grades and better chance in IPTA if they're in Matrik than STPM.

      The statement of "Just ask yourself… why u can't get into matriculation?" is really moronic. I scored straight As in my SPM but do I have the choice for Matrik? My application was rejected!

      Delete
    20. AnonymousTuesday, January 14, 2014 11:21:00 am

      "some of you can't even speak proper English"

      Your English is neither good

      ]"STPM is 'harder' but who ARE you to judge?"

      I may not be the one to judge but just put up the application for any top universities in the world and you're not in any lack of intelligence to tell who will be given preference and due consideration.

      Delete
    21. As an education counselor, I'd always advise my students to go for Matrikulasi instead of STPM due to its comparably easier syllabus and higher chances of being accepted and admitted in into our local public universities. For those who're targeting for overseas universities and its scholarship, STPM is still a preferred choice if they couldn't afford the expensive A-level.

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    22. I doubt that many bright students in Japan or China speaks proper English either. Why are you targeting his grammar but not his point of view?

      Anyway, look at those students doing medic, pharmacy or dentistry in our Local U. I'll bet you a thousand bucks that most of them are from diploma & matriculation. People scoring straight A's in STPM are able to obtain a place in one of the top 10 university, but were unable to secure even a place in Local U, and often they're being labeled being too fussy.

      1 Malaysia 2 standards

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    23. Agree! People in STPM getting 4.0 or 3.9+ failing to get a place for medic/pharmacy/dentistry, while people from matriculation get to go in from backdoor. pfft

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    24. But I still don't get why all the butthurt is being directed towards the matriculation students when it should be solely directed at the government.

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    25. It should be directed to those 45% voters of Barang Naik!

      1 Malaysia, Banyak Kangkung

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    26. Wow, such mentality that STPM produces, "so what? who cares?" you have no idea how ignorant you are.

      Delete
    27. STFU lah, not giving u matrics offer u complain, already given, also complain. U go study at politeknik lah easy. What a douche

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    28. WELL. AM A STPM STUDENT. NO MATTER WHAT COURSE YOU ARE DOING, JUST DO YOUR BEST. A QUESTION THAT IS STRIKING MY MIND NOW IS, WHAT WILL YOU GAIN BY ARGUING THIS? EVEN IF YOU WIN IN THIS ARGUMENTS. WILL YOU GET ANY BENEFITS? ARE YOU TELLING ME THAT IF YOU WIN THIS YOU CAN GET RECOGNIZED? OR WHAT? YOU CAN GET MILLIONS OF RINGGIT WHEN YOU FINALLY STEP INTO THE SOCIETY TO WORK? ISN'T THAT MOST IMPORTANT THING IS DO YOUR PART? INSTEAD OF COMPARING THESE? LIKE HOMESICK EXTRA STUDYING TIME. IF WE CAN CHOOSE, I DO BELIEVE WE WANT EXTRA TIME TO STUDY. IF YOU WISH TO GO BACK TO YOUR DORM AT 2 PLEASE GO AHEAD. FOR US WE EVEN BEG OUR TEACHERS TO STAY BACK TO TEACH US MORE. NOW, JUST STOP COMPLAINING. JUSTIFY AND CLARIFY YOUR OWN POINTS.

      Delete
    29. I am a foundation student, personally it think stpm and matriks are not comparable as they are different things, it is same like you are arguing which course in degree in harder, no point. However, bringing issues like walking distance la sun la rain la formal attire la all of these are irrelevant, it is not a good choice to bring all these issues into the argument

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    30. It is as working hard is sadly not the only variable in achieving success. Many people in matriculation achieve their 4.0 at the expense of their sanity. Some say that bringing up points about our living conditions is not a good point. I strongly disagree as its a factor in mental sanity, something which you need in order to focus in your studies. There is rubbish everywhere, especially in the shower cubicles. 24 people have to share 3 toilets (cuz the other toilets either are clogged or not water). Imagine waking up in the morning just to wait in a long queue to bathe or to go to the toilet, in a filthy place. Clogged sinks. Truly disgusting. And this is in the girls dormitory fyi. Also most of the rooms are haunted. How would you like to be bitten by some spiritual entity? Also there are bugs everywhere, amd when it rains, good luck. You can never study in peace with one hitting you every now and then. If there is a violent storm (and there is one every semester), say goodbye to your clothes if they are hanging outside. If you live on the top floor, the roof might collapse on you. (Happened in my batch) When it comes to food, it counts on you being lucky or not. If you come late, you don't get food. Its not like we can leave the area to get food. Homesickness is not a small thing. MCs are mostly in jungle areas, so we dont get good internet. So we cant even make a vid call to our family after not seeing them for 4 weeks. I thought i would never miss my family, but man was I wrong. Also you live in a room with 3 other malays. Mine had no idea about my culture. They ignore me most of the time. Imagine having a mental breakdown in a small room of people, and people go about their lives laughing. Call me weak, but that sucks. Its the little things that eat away your sanity. Welp, this has been quite a rant. In no way am I saying that people who take STPM have it easy, but Matriculation despite it being easy to score there, it breaks you down to pieces. And you have to fend for yourself. Its worst if this is the first time you are staying away for your parents. But man I have learnt so much from that time.

      Delete
  3. most student from matriculation have low attitude level when they are in the university..yes the habit of asking question is good, but simple thing that you could think on your own should not be asked...this is some major difference between matriculation students and STPM students that been seen by every university...

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    Replies
    1. Admit it, you couldn't make it to matriculation because your SPM result was horrible. I'm so upset to know that people like you still exist, selfish, arrogant and ignorant.... You could never be successful if you keep on looking down on others. I'm now doing my degree in one of the top universities of UK, and I am proud to say that I was A MATRICULATION student!

      Delete
    2. Oh yeah, forgotten to mention that you're one year older than us. I don't mean to be rude, but isn't that your job and responsibility to teach the younger? :)

      Delete
    3. Quite the contrary, actually: I see most STPM students in my course struggling to catch up with lectures and tutorials, as they're separated from one of their biggest crutches: tuition.

      Matric students on the other hand, tend to be more independent, relying on themselves to study - after all, they had to. Separated from their families and tuition centres, they only had themselves to rely on to get through matriculation. Tuition and tips given by matric lecturers? Pffft, dream on.

      I also see that STPM students tend to revert to their "grinding" way of studying - hardcore reading and reading without thorough application and analysis. Matric students, due to the limited time they had in matrics, have often found a way to quickly absorb and understand academic materials.

      Of course, I'm generalizing. But of course, that's because you are doing the same ;)

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    4. I do think that statistics favours STPM students. However, i do think that STPM is getting easier compared to back in my days (late 80's).

      After many years of working, I think STPM or Matriculation, just like University, is just a passport anyway, actions, hardship, environment and the mentality of students themselves, will determine their own success.

      Instead of fighting which graduates are better, we should fight for a unified or an equal opportunity Pre-U education though! That'll be the true 1Malaysia's spirit :)

      Delete
    5. No offence, just want to say that ppl don't get into matriculation not just because of their horrible spm result. I scored straight As with 7A+ for my spm, but I couldn't get into matriculation, not because of my result, but because of my skin colour.

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    6. I'm sorry but 7 A+ was not good.

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    7. 7A+ is not good to enter matriculation... then how come some 5A+ ppl can enter ? double standards means double standards. accept the fact that you need to work harder.

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    8. Come on! You got 7A+ and you said that was good. If you think 7A+ can be your ticket for this fast train, you're so wrong. Now I realize why you're complaining tht STPM is difficult, because STPM is just not something for you. You were not tht good initially! If all matriculation student (with your skin colour) were to do STPM, you didn't even stand a chance in getting yourself a place for the gov U. I'm so sorry for being so rude, but just want to tell you please don't turn your nose up at us. Alright? we're cool dude.

      Delete
    9. AnonymousTuesday, January 14, 2014 8:40:00 pm

      Don't be such a moron and say 7A+ in SPM was not good. The score is in the top 8% of the overall SPM results.

      To help explain, all students from Sekolah Berasrama Penuh are given priority in Matrikulasi and that's why you can see 4A+ students being qualified for Matrikulasi.

      1 Malaysia, Various Standards

      Delete
    10. Ying..can you share with us how much you obtain for your koko marks??
      And what are the subjects you get A+ in spm???

      Delete
    11. Well, it's not a good idea to generalized isn't it. To be fair I have met fellow matriculation graduates doing well in university, in fact the top scorer of my course came from matriculation itself.

      To me attitude depends on the person himself, and has nothing to do with where he graduated.

      Delete
  4. 1. you got your 4.0 relatively a whole lot easier.
    2. You have semester system in matrik (although they have semester systems for stpm now), i had to sit for all physics I, II, III, and 4 more subjects in the course of 2 weeks.
    3. You get tips from your lecturers, you have better a structured courses (STPM students have to find their own source to study)
    4. Did you take any extra initiatives to study beyond your scope of studies? What did you learn besides taking exams? (Career related)

    First of all, congrats on your 4.0 and congrats on getting a place in the university. However, no one really cares what grades you have in matrik or stpm, or where are you from. As a first class holder, i did not even bother to include my cgpa in my CV and stop whining like a little child.

    To be honest, I think you're an intelligent guy, and you shouldn't be bothered about what other people say. Since you're a university student, my advice to you is that i hope that you'll brush aside your bruised ego, continue to work hard, work with lecturers, get involve with projects & research during your semester break, and get your first class honors, because its never about where you come from.

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    Replies
    1. I only agree with your advice on the whining part. That's all I can say.

      Delete
  5. You STPM people are just so sensitive and full of ego...His main point is all students are the same and public shouldn't think they have it easy and degrade them based on which pre-university course they completed. So you got 4.0 in SPTM? Well a big congratulations to you all. But that doesn't mean matriculation students can't do as well as you guys or even better. In my case, my friends and I treat each other equally and in fact many of my peers who completed matriculation did better, got higher score than those of STPM's student. We joined course-related projects and worked with industries all the same.

    If you want to argue or debate on placement of students in matriculation and STPM, I suggest you continue at other places as it will never end.

    Good day to all.

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    Replies
    1. Yup, just we should all just move on from this meaningless argument. STPM students are only sour because of this unfairness, I don't think they are looking down on their matriculation friends. However we should fight for a more unified & equal Pre-U education.

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    2. Matriculation is much easier than STPM because it is for Malays(low percentage for non-bumiputera).Just admit it because you can't cope with the syllabus in STPM.If both of the exams are the same,why don't you take STPM instead of matriculation?

      Delete
    3. If we were to take STPM, would you ever make it to the university? To answer your question, the main reason is I don't want to waste my time. I don't want to learn PA or other equally useless shits. I want to secure myself an offer from the university. I want to score this shit with full grade. I want to guide my Malay peers so tht they do not have to struggle that hard. I want to experience a new life rather than staying in high school. I want to do sport like a real man. I love to learn various cultures and languages. I want to explore new places away from home. I miss my home, and so I treasure the moments spent with family. I want to meet new faces. I want a new lecture method. I want to be independent and learn to fend for myself. I want to utilize my youth to the fullest.... And with STPM, you can do none of these. I'm sorry for you. Your time is all occupied with study, and I feel really sad for tht.

      Delete
    4. Well, the reason is simple: we get to graduate 1 year earlier

      Delete
  6. nah...oOo...u never gone thru stpm.so u ll nvr know the difficulty of stpm. when i was taking stpm,i did matric past year,it was so easy. The questions were so direct. MAtric is good for those cheap ass cos evbody has the chance to get 4 flat.

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    Replies
    1. Admit it, ur spm result was fking unqualified to enter Matrix, and Matrix is a sour grape for u. Well, try hard next time and make sure u won't simply find a reason to blame the unfairness.
      Btw, from what I knew, Matrix students are full of 10A+s SPM-ers or at least 5 or 6A+s. Wish u have a bright future if u believe that u are strong than anyone else after struggling for STPM, we have no comments :)

      Delete
    2. Not everyone has the chance to enter matrix ok? I got straight A1 for my spm in my time but had no luck in getting into matrix.

      Nevertheless I took up stpm, entered uni and graduated with first class, so I believe hard work will still bring you to where you want no matter which path you took.

      Delete
    3. Haha..we( A-Level and Form 6 students) always agree with your opinion,dude. Those Matric asses said that they could apply for courses in foreign universities. Lol..what a joke! Do they mean UK,USA,Australia,New Zealand and Canada are not in their foreign uni list? Haha...XD

      Delete
  7. In my opinion, those Non-Bumis who entered Matrics are those who excelled academically in high school..In my college, the minimum non-bumi's SPM result is 6A+ with the rest 8A+ and above....even IF they are to stay or choose to continue at STPM, they would still score. Meanwhile, those in STPM complain about how difficult their exams are and etc....

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  8. Well said mate! Matriculation life was tough, especially for those who left home to live by themselves for the first time in their life. We had very little time to prepare for our exams (judging at the way we were living, we'd be glad if we had extra hours of sleep) thou our papers were 'way much easier'.

    In the end when you enter university, everyone starts off from zero. It's a jungle to test your survival skills. No one cares about how you fared your pre-u results. But of course, all that matters only when you managed to get into university WITH your pre-u result. (and that is another debatable issue on another topic for another day)

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  9. Let's put it in a way none of us have gone through both systems. Yes i am from Matriculation and i acknowledge the hardship STPM students have to go through. But nevertheless Matriculation has its own hard standard by exam questions but it was the 'graphing' that pulls down the average passing that enables a lot of chinese to get 4 flat. At my college 80% of non bumis get 4 flats while less than 3% of bumis get 4 flat as well. No racial discussion on this but this is just to tell you the scene.

    I have to agree that the education scenario is still unfair to many. Matric gets fully sponsored studies as well as living allowance (at my time). STPM has to sit through the long painful school system and yet doubting on their choices as there are risk in their choices. ANY Matric holder should be very grateful of what they get into, unfortunately i see a lot of my 90% bumi friends just somehow appreciate mara uitm more than matrics that they can just quit without a thought.

    Eitherway, all of this arguments do not matter as it is all depending on how you make the best out of your future degree and really doing what you love to do in life.

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  10. for those stpm-nian who looked down on matri-nian, please do get Max's original intention: Matri is NOT BETTER THAN stpm, just that Matri is NOT AS EASY as you think.
    1. In STPM u have 2 years, OF COURSE the exam is harder, it is a no brainer.
    2. You can attend so many extra tuition classes while in matriculation everything is on your own. You can have a simplified mindmap prepared by your beloved teachers, in matriculation, nobody gives you a damn, you are on your own.
    3. Dont forget you enjoyed the leisure of studying in your home, with your family, with edible food and being free (well, nt entirely free from the hectic lifestyle but at least you can go anywhere) for 2 years. In matriculation even that is just merely a fantasy to dream on, not to mention when you are sicked. You have no soup to drink on, you have no people to help you with your laundries, you have to go out and buy your meal (can I even call it a meal? no it is just merely providing energy to survive) even if it's raining, you have no where to go when you need entertainment the most if you are a matriculation student.
    4. The reason for STPM for 2 years is, your daily schooling hours is approx. half of Matri and the holidays you have are much more longer compared to Matri. in Matri 8 to 5 is a minimal schooling hours, excluding the extra morning classes (7am) and night classes (8pm onwards) and tutorial classes (any empty slots on your timetable)

    Indeed we matriculation students learn less and our exam do look easier, please do take in mind we use 1 year, not 2 years, to study and hence please do acknowledge our efforts and stop whining about how much you sacrificed in your STPM, Matri aren't doing any lesser than you. And more importantly, it's the attitude that matters after you got into an university, they seriously, dont fckin care bout how great you got for your cpga. You are not focused, you are not interested, you aren't getting any further from doom.

    A point to point out: Lecturers in Matri do not give out any tips. Even Matri students (for me) i had referred to at least 5 international books. The question referring to Matri students are spoonfed is another no-brainer. This depends on the attitude of the student, you cant make it a stereotype of Matri student, it is so unfair.

    Conclusion: The only difference between STPM and Matri is, Matri learn how to adapt the culture in university (everything is on your own) first, then they learn how to catch up the difference in academic between Matri n STPM. STPM advances academically, then only they learn to adapt to the culture in university. We are all the same. So stop comparing between STPM and Matri, stop thinking which 1 is more superior than another. Neither of them are better compared to one another. I am appreciated that I was selected to enter Matri as a nonbumi. (as a nonbumi i learned a lot of things in life other than academic knowledge as well). The only problem exists is the unfair distribution of slots in all local universities among the Matri, asasi, a lvl, sam, stpm and students in other pre-u programs.

    p.s. to bumi: if u been thinking of choosing asasi over matri n u hv never interacted with other races before(like boarding school, SMK etc.), i strongly suggest u to choose matri. Living 1 year with other races can solves so much misunderstanding between races and religion and you can truly understand how beautiful it is to live with other races. People fear other races because they dont understand the other races. Do not fooled by our p*****, the real Malaysia is much much MUCH more beautiful than you can ever imagine. Sincerely. I never regret my life in matri despite all the hardship I went thru. I gained something in Matri which is far more valuable, other than a passport to an university.

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    1. Hey yea agree . I proud to say that i was from MATRICULATION !

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    2. Well said but in reality how many non-bumi are given the chance to study in Matrik?

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    3. Well, nobody can deny the fact that matrix is easier than STPM because the ministry is assisting bumi students to 'excel' in their studies & get into IPTAs easily. Not many bumis would choose the STPM path as it is SO MUCH MORE difficult than matrix. Yes, I was once a matrix student from Kelantan, and I aced gloriously in my exams without even putting much effort into my studies.

      My youngest sister is currently doing her STPM and I just had a look at her books. Well, it was so obvious the standard is significantly huge between STPM and matrix. STPM mould excellent students, not matrix. You can get flats at matrix but anyone who understand the truth behind it will not be impressed; with the grades lowered and the syllabuses easier.

      If you REALLY think matrix is easy, you're either a scumbag who has a low self-esteem or you're a bumi who got into matrix because of the race quota. If you can't handle matrix at its easiest, then you can never compete with the world. With A-Level, AUSMAT and IB high achievers, what use is your Malaysian matrix qualification?

      Delete
  11. Phantom Part 1

    Seriously, all you guys argue about something like this?

    Guys, what our current governmental generation had done such a mistakes, we cannot afford to do more. We are actually comparing both matriculation and STPM at this, per se. Speaking frankly, why do one want to compare between matriculation and STPM? As an educated person all yourself, not we are educated such a way that we should not be arguing about something.

    In terms of speaking about matriculation, i understand that matriculation guys are studying in the respective matriculation institution for a year, or at least if they fail, two years. While STPM, would be having a 2 year test. Matriculation is exam by semester whereas STPM, is 2 years and a huge blast examination. Be reminded that there is no such thing that matriculation student can forget their part and parcel of information during the semester one because during the semester two, they (matriculation student) are required to use the knowledge of the first semester as well to solve the questions in their final examination.

    Speaking frankly, even though all you guys are arguing over the timing period that matriculation study for one year while STPMers study for two years, THAT IS ACTUALLY SAME. It is true, because most of my matriculation friends have class sometimes even until 10:00 pm at night, while STPMers even with the addition of a cocurricular activities, they can actually go back to home at the most, 6 pm let's say the latest one per se. Speaking about co curricular activites, both institution are required to go for it because it will affect the University Intake Criteria as well. While co curricular activities in matriculation are sometimes even on the morning of Saturday and Sunday (certain states having Friday and Saturday), actually, they still have to go to their co curricular classes on weekdays as well. In terms of STPM, only we would most probably ended up with a Saturday half day co curriculars or after class curriculars.

    The thing is in matriculation there are also tutor session at night. Tutor Tutee Program, if that is what they are calling it. And every nights, attendance are counted and if you are not going to the session, your lecturer in charge might get angry and in the end, you might not even pass well. The thing is Tutor Tutee is only between student and student and it is not between a lecturer and a student. For STPMers, you can visit a tuition class, just like most do, and there are guidances, for even if the tutor made a mistakes, with a class of 20, someone could point our the mistakes. As for matriculation, they are all students, and it is usually a group of 1 tutor to 3 tutee. So, this kind of session is not going to benefit one at all, because if the tutor made the mistakes, the tutee would be learning nothing as well. So, in terms of gaining knowledge, STPM actually works quite well.

    Continue to Part 2

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  12. Phantom Part 2

    The difference is, in matriculation, they have curfew, they cannot even go back on weekends to visit their family because there might be activities and they might not even be able to go outings because they had done a mistakes (for example bringing a hair dryer to the matriculation just because you want to prevent fleas infection). Because the punishment for offending the laws of matriculation usually begins with the blockage of outings and going back home. It is just like army school, the fact that differs is only in army schools, they do pumping but if you are in matriculations, you are going nowhere if your hair is long until your eyebrows. In STPM, if your hair is long, certain school even let you go to school, because they want to treat you like an adult.

    Also, laws in matriculations are strict, I heard that in some matriculation, they have assembly DAILY. can you believe that a group of age 18 adults are having assembly DAILY, STPMers, usually have assembly once a week, that is like maximum, let's say 2 in case of a fire drill or emergency notices. Even in some matriculation, i heard that if they didnt get off their room in the morning before 8am, they will be locked in the room and for each lesson they missed, the attendance that didnt get sign, they are going to get punishment again.

    Money on the other hand are more favour towards matriculation because the government give them allowances and STPMers dont have that. STPMers have to fork out their own money, not only going to schools, going to tuition but for their meals as well. So, thank God we have 1Malaysia Book Vouchers as well now. Dont you wanna thank God for that?

    The thing is, in a nutshell, it is what our government has being doing wrong for all the bias issue. The matriculation are initially for bumiputeras only. The STPMs are for the non bumiputeras and those bumiputeras that didnt get selected for matriculation and those poor guys that cannot go to college because their parents cannot afford themselves. This for instance, is our government's fault. We should be asking for the equal rights, that both matriculation and STPM are treated equally, but our government wont be doing it. Why? You know the answer quite well, Malaysian readers. You understand what i meant.

    The thing is non bumiputeras that enter the matriculation institutions are just lucky because they get attached to the bumiputeras and get more chances of entering university. While those that suffers the STPM dilemma would be just having to understand the real meaning of what is real harmony in a school of lots of races, no matter, Malay, Indian or Chinese.

    Continue to Part 3

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  13. Phantom Part 3

    The difference is, in matriculation, they have curfew, they cannot even go back on weekends to visit their family because there might be activities and they might not even be able to go outings because they had done a mistakes (for example bringing a hair dryer to the matriculation just because you want to prevent fleas infection). Because the punishment for offending the laws of matriculation usually begins with the blockage of outings and going back home. It is just like army school, the fact that differs is only in army schools, they do pumping but if you are in matriculations, you are going nowhere if your hair is long until your eyebrows. In STPM, if your hair is long, certain school even let you go to school, because they want to treat you like an adult.

    Also, laws in matriculations are strict, I heard that in some matriculation, they have assembly DAILY. can you believe that a group of age 18 adults are having assembly DAILY, STPMers, usually have assembly once a week, that is like maximum, let's say 2 in case of a fire drill or emergency notices. Even in some matriculation, i heard that if they didnt get off their room in the morning before 8am, they will be locked in the room and for each lesson they missed, the attendance that didnt get sign, they are going to get punishment again.

    Money on the other hand are more favour towards matriculation because the government give them allowances and STPMers dont have that. STPMers have to fork out their own money, not only going to schools, going to tuition but for their meals as well. So, thank God we have 1Malaysia Book Vouchers as well now. Dont you wanna thank God for that?

    The thing is, in a nutshell, it is what our government has being doing wrong for all the bias issue. The matriculation are initially for bumiputeras only. The STPMs are for the non bumiputeras and those bumiputeras that didnt get selected for matriculation and those poor guys that cannot go to college because their parents cannot afford themselves. This for instance, is our government's fault. We should be asking for the equal rights, that both matriculation and STPM are treated equally, but our government wont be doing it. Why? You know the answer quite well, Malaysian readers. You understand what i meant.

    The thing is non bumiputeras that enter the matriculation institutions are just lucky because they get attached to the bumiputeras and get more chances of entering university. While those that suffers the STPM dilemma would be just having to understand the real meaning of what is real harmony in a school of lots of races, no matter, Malay, Indian or Chinese.


    Phantom

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  14. My apologies, i pasted the wrong part 3, This is Phantom Part 3

    So, educated readers, i think that it should not be us that are arguing over the issue, but dont you think that we should ask for more equal rights between matriculation and STPM? To have the same teachers marking the papers, the same education policy. While most parents want to send their child to study engineer, doctor, bla bla bla, i think that most of these are critical courses and they should be given on a way equal position, universities themselves should take 50-50 for each course, involving matriculation and STPM. not 80% matriculation.

    The thing is, we had to change, but we dont know where should we start, we need a guidance, a planner, a real politician that stands up, bracing himself to change the fate of Malaysian. but with this kiasu and kiasi attitude, fighting over matriculation is better than STPM, there is no way we will have the chance to change our future generations, because they will be ending up suffering like what our current generations are arguing in a complete, similar cycle.

    Phantom

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  15. Grades cant explain everything. My spm results are quite horrible. I managed to get into uni, with diploma up til master degree. My family dont have that much money, so i have to do part time jobs and manage to get some scholarships to support the fees and for pocket money. during my job interview, experiences were asked a lot than results. So ignore those rubbish talks. They wont feed you later. Travel a lot, be friend with people from diff background. Im proud that wherever i went for my studies, i have gain beautiful experiences. Now i am a lecturer at public uni, and for phd, im looking for more experience :) goodluck students!

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  16. The fact that you are in university already but complaining about your "mistreatment" because of what pre-U path you chose just goes to show how shallow minded, sensitive and immature you are. Why are you so hard up over something that wouldn't matter anymore once you graduate with your degree.

    Furthermore, I have seen both excellent Matric and STPM students. It is their attitudes that make them excellent and they certainly don't whine about stereotypes placed on them.

    Besides, I also know many STPM students who didn't do very well for SPM (as what some of you keep harping on) but those students when entered their specialised fields became excellent academic students.

    The biggest question here is so what if your Matric or STPM results are fantastic and you cannot even secure a decent paying job, neither are you street wise. For goodness sake, aim to be the entire package and not a whining brat.

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  18. Each pre-university course has its own pros and cons. Matriculation or STPM, easy or hard, 4.0 or not, it all boils down to one thing that matters: yourself. Your attitude towards learning will determine your results, regardless of which course you'd gone through. Even if you'd chosen the "easier" path but lead the life of a lazy student, that 4.0 will not come to you. Conclusion: Do your best, study hard and smart, in whatever you do. And this is coming from an A-Level student lol

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  19. ME, I said it was easy (read: http://www.malaysia-students.com/2012/06/matriculation-programme-matrikulasi.html). And I've been through it just like you. Quit whining.

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  20. Actually we all know no matter who we from, no one care about it. But author create such an emotional blog for what? To make hate between each other? I hope you can think before you write, and for those who still they are better, go **** yourself, matrix have given priority to university but suffer homesick 1 year, stpmian have tougher syllabus but they can meet their families. We are even, don't look down each other.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The author is shitting from his mouth in words. He isn't proud coz he's competiting with bunch of mostly below-standard schoolmates.

      Delete
    2. "I am not here to degrade or belittle STPM but rather to shed some light and reveal to the general public that matriculation is not as easy as it seems."

      "With this I hope that we can stop comparing matriculation and STPM. "

      The author is not competing anything. Please dont let your emotion overruled you. This post, again, is to show that, stpm is tough, but matri isnt any easier. That's it and that's all. STPM may be furious about this bcoz they think STPM paper is harder, they have no life etc and that's what make them think STPM is the most dominant degree ever and matri degree is a piece of shit while perhaps, deep inside, they just envy those who enter matri. My conclusthat pion is: both matri n stpm have both advantages and disadvantages that themselves who went thru that process understand it. So stop flaming the author and accept the fact that the main one in fault is the government. And in fact, deep down to the truth, the one playing the most essential role is the student's attitude.

      Delete
  21. Quoted from the writer... "we got our 4.0s relatively easier due to the fact that the marks we needed to score to obtain an A would be relatively lower than what our STPM counterparts would need to score to get an equivalent A but it is very untrue that our examinations and papers are much easier. Our examinations and the syllabus that we had to go through was tough. Yes, the syllabus is shorter and more simplified than the STPM syllabus but there is also a reason to this and the reason is that our program is a very short one when compared to the 2 years our STPM counterparts had to fight through."

    You contradicted yourself with just this paragraph....
    People normally don't care about the way you live or how you go through your daily life... At the end of the day all falls down to result... As you have said that syllabus is shorter and score would be relatively lower... What you said right there is enough to show the differences in qualities of education.... BTW, homesick, study stuff, all of those small little stuff cannot be taken as an excuse because all college students goes through that... Duh....
    Stop whining and just accept the fact....

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    Replies
    1. He is not contradicting himself. Allow me to explain before you getting more n more misunderstood.

      "we got our 4.0s relatively easier due to the fact that the marks we needed to score to obtain an A would be relatively lower than what our STPM counterparts would need to score to get an equivalent A"

      this sentence means that due the graph, even if we did a little major mistakes, eg.80/100 we perhaps will still get a 4.0 bcoz 80% of matri get 60/100 while only 5% gt 80/100.

      "it is very untrue that our examinations and papers are much easier. Our examinations and the syllabus that we had to go through was tough. Yes, the syllabus is shorter and more simplified than the STPM syllabus but there is also a reason to this and the reason is that our program is a very short one when compared to the 2 years our STPM counterparts had to fight through."

      This paragraph means that, the syllabus is tough, but easier compared to STPM due to the difference in the duration of the course. But that doesnt mean that the exam paper is going to be easy.

      Hence by combining both fact together, we have a not-very-tough syllabus compared to STPM and a tough paper. We scored not really high, perhaps only 85/100, but due to the graph, we might still get a 4.0. Get it?

      You never experienced the life in matriculation, so you assumed that matri life is heaven and stpm life is hell or whatsoever. And since when are we comparing between matri and college students? And why should we comparing since the beginning? The author just want to tell us that Matri is not as easy you think, that's all. We all accepted the fact STPM is hard, just that you all still, deny to accept the fact that matri is not hard either. Perhaps u still, for unknown reason, comparing STPM and matri, and assuming STPM is the superior one compared to matri, the inferior one?

      Delete
  22. Life and study in matriculation is still very much easier campare with STPM that is a fact that you cannot denied. You campare the life at matriculation with STPM mode inorder to upgrade the public view regarding matriculation programme camparing to STPM. An apple still is an apple, it cannot became an orange.
    TQ

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  23. This comment has been removed by the author.

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  24. You have your pride i have my proud. u don't cross the line and i won't. don't something about it and that's all. I am proud to be a STPM student just like u r proud to be a matriculation student. enuff said.

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  25. don't write something*

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  26. Dafuq. not that hard. stop whining and complaining

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  27. The syllabus and examinations of stpm is considerably more difficult than matriculation and u agreed with this. And that's nuff said.

    Everyone's got their own hardships in life so let's leave way of life out of the equation. To me, it just sounds like you're just coming up, and even exaggerating, lots of difficulties in hostel life just to balance the inequality of the education system.

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  28. i have a lot of friends who came from Matriculation, so do those who are from STPM. I am a STPM leaver and yes I din't get into Matriculation like my friends in my secondary school. When I first came to university, people are quite distinctly labelled us as "smart and clever", because we knew what's our strength and weakness. I somehow respect to most of my matriculation friend because they have alot of things that i need to learn too. Well, afterall, we are all the same when we start at zero in university level. If you want to compare how STPM and Matriculation, there's two different things totally. Syallabus different, the way of study also different, but eventually all converged into same point when we stepped into University. Chill out, I quite enjoyable with my friends from both Matriculation and STPM, because we are the same, we don't have difference.

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  29. No need to write long and windy post just to justify yourself....tough life? everywhere in this world is tough! its just a matter of time either sooner or later you will be experiencing them..just work hard no matter where you are...period

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  30. First and foremost, to prevent any accusation of me being bias towards any party, i'd like to clarify that I am a GCE A-levels students and thus have no vested interest on this matter.
    With much apology to the author, I'd have to say that I disagree with some of the things he has to say.
    Define easy. Assuming that he was trying to convey that the syllabus for matriculation is equivalent or harder than stpm, I personally feel that he did not present his case very well as there is not much elaboration on syllabus comparison and examination standards but rather paragraph after paragraphs of complains about LIFE in matriculation but not about the toughness of the examination. While preparing for my A-levels exams I did practice on some matrix and stpm questions and have found stpm questions to be much tougher and as someone has mentioned before, not as direct as the matrix questions. The fact that most overseas universities acknowledge stpm and not matrix, is strong evidence that the stpm syllabus and examination is tougher and is of international standards. Pulling in all the examples of difficulty when studying in matrix seem pretty redundant and irrelevant if your objective is to show that matrix students are of equivalent if not higher standards when it comes to pre-uni studies than stpm students, dont you think? Committing a pretty typical case of red herring fallacy in your arguement.
    However if the author is talking about the whole process of studying being more difficult than stpm, well I do have to agree that the author did make life in matrix sound pretty difficult. But there are a few points which i feel are pretty weak. Matrix students have to wear formal wear but stpm students have to wear school uniforms everyday. I mean on a personal level, i'd choose formal wear over school uniforms, anytime. Adding on, if you were to complain about homesickness and about the surrounding being rural, what about those students who started staying in asrama since their primary and secondary schooling years or those who have spent their entire life in those rural states (from the passage im assuming that the author comes from a more developed state, correct me if i'm wrong). Leaving home for education is a growing process that most people have to go through, and not only the matrix student.
    Last but not least, I do feel that it is pretty mean that some of the commenters say that the stpm students are only in stpm because they cannot get into matrix. Bear in mind that there are good students that opt for stpm in hope of going overseas due to the fact that matrix students have a slimmer chance of gaining entry into overseas uni. There is no doubt that matrix students have good grades in spm and are of the higher percentage of bright minds in Malaysia. However just because the students are smart, that does not prove that matrix is tougher. spm is the past. fact is when students enter the same course in university, i do strongly believe that stpm students have a stronger base.
    Life for a matrix student might not be as easy as one may presume, however the examinations are undoubtedly easier than stpm. I believe that you cannot have your cake and eat it. Both stpm and matrix has its pros and cons. Tougher life in matriculation allows one to gain an easier admission into their desirable course whereas a relatively easier life of a stpm student will have more difficulty when it comes to gaining a seat in their desired course. My personal advice is to suck it up and stop complaining. Do well in your university exams and no one will doubt your abilities.
    I sincerely apologize if i have offended anyone.

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    1. This is a great comment and I totally agree with your point of view.

      Delete
    2. Very well said. Let me clarify, I am also a JPA Bursary scholars who has finished my Cambridge A-Levels and not being biased here. I received first batch of matriculation but somehow I rejected because I aim for overseas studies. Dear author, to be frank, stop lamenting on how hard matriculation life is without putting yourself in others shoes, instead, be grateful. And yes don't be such a mean to insult people who study STPM are underachievers, I am a very good example who rejected matriculation and go on with a-levels with no regrets as I have better offers than what matriculation could have given. From what I've read all the problems and difficulties are so kiddo at first I thought it would be an interesting passage. FYI, EVERYONE, encounters the same situation but I don't see them as a problem, I see them as a positive obstacle. Be more grown up.

      Delete
  31. Come on la people! Matriculation or STPM.. You still end up in the same university!

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    1. "Come on la people! Matriculation or STPM.. You still end up in the same university!"

      Please know what you said. A 4-flat Matrik student may end up in UM but a 4-flat STPM student will end up in no where. If he's very lucky, he may end up in East Malaysia IPTAs if there's a vacancy for him/her. Go find the fact before doing the talking. Last year alone, all top STPM students applying for medicine end up in University Malaysia Sarawak.

      Delete
  32. I guess most of ppl forgot one thing,
    All spm graduates can apply for matriculation, but only those who got better results in both SPM & extraacademic performance (valid for nonM for sure) will be selected to enter matrix, and those who failed to be chosen will enter private or stpm.
    And then those who entered stpm, blaming matrix leaver coz they can hav an easier syllabus n enter uni one yr earlier.. but not willing to admit they didnt put all efforts in secondary school.. ya stpm is harder to enter uni, but matrix exams oso hard wat? Guessmost of those saying matrix is easier n lousier ever aapproach any matrix leaver on how's their hectic life in matrix, and also the exam' syllabus.

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    1. Ppl wif 9A+ and above are offered bursary fr IB program and A-Levels, which is what we call private and some good students choose stpm too. Plus ppl who get scholarships such as Petronas, Bank Negara, Yayasan and so on are mostly sent to private. Good students who want to go overseas will also not choose matrikulasi cause most university outside don't acknowledge it. so please don't say 'those who failed to be chosen will enter private or stpm' =.= get ur facts right man.

      Delete
    2. Please."blaming matrix leaver coz they can hav an easier syllabus n enter uni one yr earlier.. but not willing to admit they didnt put all efforts in secondary school." The problem is on the selection process itself, not on matrix students. How transparent the selection process, we do not know.

      Delete
    3. Anonymous Monday, January 13, 2014 11:20:00 pm

      Don't give false facts. I scored straight As in SPM but my schoolmate scored 4As and he managed to get Matrik. Our koko points are about the same. Don't tell me he got higher computer score ranking than me. Even the selection process is highly doubtful.

      It's not a matter of how hard Matrik or STPM to be compared, it's how easier Matrik or STPM to be eligible for public u.

      Delete
    4. Such ignorant guy. must be matrix leaver who supports the idea blindly. Try go take STPM then tell me STPM leavers didn't put efforts in their study. Now we are comparing the pre-U studies ( Matrix and STPM). Not about which side didn't put effort in their secondary studies.

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    5. Dear human, please check your facts. I rejected matriculation because I clearly understand that entering matriculation will only narrow down my opportunity. I was an a level student who has tried both matrix and stpm past year papers and honestly matrix papers are so much more direct and straight forward. So please don't compare if you haven't tried both out yet and simply giving unpersuasive statements which will only bring up more arguments.

      Delete
  33. Lol...all children here ...haha I got 1 friend graduated from top 1 U in the WORLD Caltech in nuclear physics and working as senior enginerring officer(power plant) in US salary ( USD 180k ) ..........I graduated from TAR college ....working as software engineer and I have write software and games to earn money ......my salary convert to US ( USD 200K+ ) ^-^ ..just stop fighting ...no matter where u graduate or wat course u graduate doesn't matter .....earn money are use your brain and knowledge ---NOT GRADUATE FROM WHICH U --- ........zzz ..I not saying that I so smart ....just stop fighting LONG WAY TO GO KIDS

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  34. Not here to add oil to fire, but would just like to clarify one thing, and that is
    STPM lasts for 1.5 years, and not 2 years as many of you mentioned in your comments :)
    (and yes,6 months less does make a lot of difference)

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  35. This is not true. Frankly speaking, its harder for stpm student to get high grades for their co-curricular activities and don't even mention about the syllabus . I myself is a stpm leaver but i never doubted the ability of matrix leaver because they were picked from the best of the best from every school of spm. Talk about daily life. I believe that every stpm leaver was assigned by teacher to manage a club and YES, most of us back to home at 3pm and prepare for tuition at 4pm . Maybe there were racial problems inside matrix which make me feel sorry for but think about it , you have the opportunity to face it earlier than us. So stop comparing and stop complaining . Don't even waste your precious time to reply the comments. Think out of the box, life isn't just the cgpa , life is about what you learn and what you contribute. = )

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  36. In my case ,I get my SPM result in 2012 ... the first year for changing of STPM format ..... And apparently I end up just a choice of going foundation for private U or stay with STPM when I didn't get into matrix. However, I left form 6 and go for foundation. As I left high school and looking at my friends with their different choice , especially STPMers , some of them left for diploma , for IPD , or still continuing their form 6 courses. But still the struggle are the same , you either struggle to get highest CGPA for desired course or trying to prove yourself being top ranker at your class or even just passing the subject. I felt sorry for my friends as they keeping up with hectic studies and tuitions, while I'm personally struggle with my peers , being the underdog. But no matter matrix or form 6 , they are just entry requirement , the most important is universiti GCPA or prospective jobs and trust me I learnt it the hard way.

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  37. A. Spm top scorers (mostly, not all) --> selected into matriculation
    B. Spm mediocre students (mostly, not all) --> not selected, goes for stpm

    Matriculation (easier)
    If A --> matriculation = score
    If B --> matriculation = score

    STPM (harder)
    If A --> stpm = most probably score
    If B --> stpm = may score

    Weaker system may give easier results, but it by no means produce weaker students, not when you consider the initial quality.

    Of course anomalous cases exist for both cases (especially for stpm, mediocre students can and will score with the right attitude) because results obtained are due to amount of hard work put in, but the general trend is such.

    Why do people (either A or B) pick matriculation over stpm? As mentioned earlier, matriculation is undoubtedly easier, if you are aiming for local public universities and you are presented with both choices, it is a simple decision to make as matriculation offers you a better chance of entering the university you want. It would be stupid to risk your place in the local public university and also your future, just to prove that matriculation students are weaker and matriculation are for weak students.

    For the top scorers who opted for stpm or the other pre-u programs because they want to go for universities overseas, they cannot be put in the same category because this conflict is primarily debated by those who are aiming for local public universities. I believe those top scorers in the matriculation who actually wanted to go overseas would not have entered the matriculation in the first place.

    Stpm students trying out matriculation papers and finding it easy is no big deal, because its supposed to be easy. Top scorers who entered matriculation and students who entered stpm will both get the same excellent results if they took matriculation papers because the standard of the papers are below the both of them. Let the top scorers who entered matriculation, study the stpm syllabus and subsequently take the stpm papers, that would be a better gauge of whether stpm or matriculation students are stronger.

    The point is that it is unfair to brand matriculation students as comparatively weaker just because of faults in the education system as they are originally strong students in the first place.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. AnonymousTuesday, January 14, 2014 1:37:00 am

      Bro, not all fathers are rich dads. For those unaffordable and average students, KPM Matrikulasi is still the fastest and easiest way of going into local public universities but the system is entirely in the hand of race card players.

      Delete
    2. Yes. For any strong or average student who are Nons, most will probably take matriculation if they are fortunate enough to be offered the chance to enter, but the comments section are attacking and belittling matriculation students just because they chose matriculation, when the fact is that if matriculation students were to take stpm, they would probably be equal or better than those who are are currently attacking them here, because as mentioned by someone above, the ones who enter matriculation are mostly those who had better results in their spm. Yes matriculation may be easier than stpm, but can you blame them for choosing the safest path available to them, even though they are perfectly capable of tackling the other more dangerous path if needed?

      Delete
  38. matrik syllabus may be shorter than that of stpm and a-level, but all of them left out a lot of fundamental things anyway. To really understand things one has to do a lot of study beyond the syllabus no matter which program he is in.

    ReplyDelete
  39. Oh please. whining baby trying to defend him/herself. I am highlighting the point "we got our 4.0s relatively easier due to the fact that the marks we needed to score to obtain an A would be relatively lower than what our STPM counterparts would need to score to get an equivalent A" which is adequate for u to enroll in your course of choice, especially for those average or below average students to get into Medicine, dental courses WITH EASE, leaving those good ambitious students out of the door, sighing. Not forgetting that you graduated from a simplified course and it's absolutely unfair to STPM/ A levels students fully loaded with knowledge, intending to do medicine/ dental course.
    Secondly, 1 year of course which enables you to get on ur university journey 1 yr early than your STPM counterparts make a huge lots of difference. Thirdly, unbearable rough daily lives is ridiculous. Water cut, curfews, rules, oh please, these are just trivial matters. i studied in KMNs so I know how it was. I don't think after the long hours class (which is pretty much it is a 8-5pm working life) u r willing to hang out.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Well, truthfully, no matter how "loaded with knowledge" one is from any Pre-U course, a huge chunk of it will be irrelevant for medicine and dentistry. All subjects except Biology contribute very little and even Biology itself is largely irrelevant as only the genetic section and human biology are used.

      Oh! Maybe some biodiversity will help when dealing with infectious diseases. Even then, most people would not remember the parasites, fungi or microorganisms that cause diseases in large detail (and to add to that point, Biology at Pre-U level teaches close to nothing about the antifungals or antibiotics needed to treat such infections). As for dentistry, let's leave the general surgery and general medicine behind as those have already been touched above. No part of Biology touches on Operative Technique, Conservative Dentistry, Prosthodontics, Periodontics, Orthodontics, Oral Maxillofacial Surgery or Paediatric Dentistry. Physics and Chemistry do have some relevance in Dental Materials, I'll admit. But the amount of new material that needs to be covered would be overwhelming that the advantage one Pre-U course has over the other would be so insignificant by then.

      So, once again, I don't see how being "loaded with knowledge" actually has its merits when it comes to these 2 courses. The point of argument is simple: Matriculation is given an unfair preference during the selection process for critical courses in IPTAs. It's true that there is a difference in knowledge attainment when comparing Matriculation students to other students and that difference is substantial, if we weren't talking about Medicine and Dentistry. But, we are talking about Med/Dent after all and so, the difference is really highly insignificant once the real shit starts.

      Delete
  40. The coments section really shows how egoistic and illiterate stpm students can be lol

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    Replies
    1. The main thing is our government shouldnt create a looks like easy path way to enter university.

      STPM syllabus is hard and this is undeniable and we use 2 years to stuggle to enter U.
      Matrix syllabus is simplified and this also undeniable and , Matrix student use 1 year to enter U.
      So ppl love to attack Matrix student because as it said it is really simplified.

      1st thing that makes ppl feeling not fair is the system itself.
      Matrix student choosing system , ( everyone wants a faster path and easier )
      Their 1st criteria is using ethnic to set the ratio , then the second is the results.
      Okay , if they are choosing by the results from the beginning , then this system is fair.

      The 2nd thing is , University in Malaysia give the priority to Matrix ( everyone know this exam system is easier )
      So , you give some student a harder and longer syllabus to study and
      you give the other student the easier and shorter syllabus to study
      but in the end U give the easier and shorter syllabus student the priority to enter the U.
      Somehow this doesnt make sense.

      Neither path way are not easy .
      Public usually speak from the view like what I said ,
      thats why they have the impression that
      "Oh , Matrix is much more easier man ,
      U have a shorter and easier syllabus and you are given the priority to enter U.
      How Lucky You Are ! "

      The adapt to the culture wasnt mean so much to student,
      because all we want is just enter the university.
      We dun really think that the adapt will bring out any effect after all.
      This is why the conflict start and this is why we all starts to attack each other.
      After all , is just the Malaysia Education System`s problem and why take it so hard ?
      The thing is work hard in both system and you will get urself a place in U.
      That`s it. Nothing comes easy.

      We just hope that one day there is only 1 system to enter Uni or 1 path way.
      Then everyone will feel fair to have a fair and square competition to fight for our future.

      Cheer ! Our young bright Malaysian University Student.
      After all , We are going to serve this Nation.
      Don`t make this become really a issue.
      The issue now is how we can make our Nation better.
      We respect each others.

      By a Student Entering University Sains Malaysia By STPM.

      Delete
    2. What to cheer for if you're rejected by IPTAs for your straight As in STPM! For your info, Matrik is no longer the top priority for IPTAs. BN's racist government has slowly and quietly slotted in pre-u students from Malay/Bumi only Asasi UM & UiTM into all IPTAs. In 2013/2014 intake for new UPM medicine students, 20+- are from Asasi UPM, 10+- Matrik, 60+- Asasi UM & UiTM, some poor rejects from Malaysian Egypt students BUT none is from STPM.

      Delete
  41. I was matriculation student, and actually, i really think that matriculation IS EASY, but indeed i cannot make comparison with STPM because I am not familiar with its syllabus. But, come on, after all these pre-u courses, everyone still makes his/her way into university. And if you really want to make comparison, just show out your university semester results ! ! I am sure that there is no difference between matric students and STPM students. AND, those one who get straight As in STPM, most of them chose critical courses like medical, dentistry, pharmacy, of course you will be more difficult to get it ! !

    ReplyDelete
  42. When I got into university, I was quite relax while seeing those matrix students studying days and nights. I only study the night before my finals and I still got A and A+. Just saying.
    P.S. : yea i am a STPM leaver, 4 flatter if you wish to know.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. May I know which course that you took and what did you do in your free time in university (you seems to have plenty)?

      Delete
    2. It does say something about the attitude cultured by the two systems lol. However nothing matters as long as you both get the same excellent results

      Delete
    3. I bet you took accountancy course.. lol..

      Delete
  43. It seems like the writer are more into whining the facilities that they dont have in matriculation instead the different of education system.STPM students have never said that maticulation is more easy than STPM while matrix students keeps on saying that STPM students are ego and harsh.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Lol. Excuse me? Obviously u hvn been reading what the stpm students were flaming up there

      Delete
  44. What use is it going through so much hardship and your Matriculation qualification is not recognized by most countries.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Entering university a year earlier and having a higher chance of getting the university and course that I want. Nothing much actually, if you think about it.

      Delete
  45. Matriculation?

    Easier to secure a place in top local universities? Er........ But why none of our top universities is in the Top 400 ranking in the world? hahahahahaha, ridiculous...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If you would bother to come out from under your coconut shell for just a second, you would realise that UM is actually among the 100s in the world on the international university ranking

      Delete
  46. Well, undeniably, skin could did playsa role in this case but please don't generalise everything. For those with 4A+ who managed to enter matric, they did not end up with 4.0, the world is fair, if you deserve it, you'll get it. Those who score well is because they deserve it and they put in the effort. Please stop on belittle those who really work hard for their study. Everyone have chosen different path, if you decided to take stpm, then don't discriminate matric students. Respect others please.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If given a choice, I believe most SPM students would opt for Matrikulasi for its higher IPTAs placement than STPM.

      Harga Kangkung Dah Turun

      Delete
  47. As a stpm student, I laugh when you said matrix is on par with stpm.
    Curriculum is far lesser,not standardised exam
    Co-Curriculum part is the most ridiculous . TOTALLY UNFAIR

    ReplyDelete
  48. To those matriculation students, if u nvr ever go through form6 life, pls dun simply tell the public how tough is yo life during matriculation. You all could stay in hostel but for some stpm students, they have to travel 20km every day from home to school. Some even have to rent a house nearby school. There isn't like hostel in matrik. During holiday, we had ton of homework to do plus assignment , project... we even had extra classes during holiday and after school. Dun publish such an article to give others an opportunity to tease you. Lol....

    ReplyDelete
  49. Both are just Pre-U.
    Your future employer won't mind what you took for your pre-u programme.
    Perhaps is your soft skills, personality traits and your knowledge concern in your field that make you stand a chance in future.
    Cheers!!!

    ReplyDelete
  50. I want to go for matriculation but courses given by them is accountancy because I am commerce student. But what I want for degree is Actuarial Studies. And I heard that they just give this for Science students.

    ReplyDelete
  51. I have a feeling everyone complaining here are non bumi people who did not get matrics . The education system is undoubtebly unfair.However , I think we should behave like mature adults and agree on the fact that there are good students in matrics and stpm , same goes for bad students .

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. LOL! This comment also kinda funny and is biased towards non-bumi! Do you see that the title is comparing STPM and Matrics system and not saying which of these have better student okay? undoubtedly,both have good students but STPM is still harder than Matrics!
      You see those matrics who enter Uni cannot even accept if there result is below 3.70?! LOL

      Delete
  52. im now confuse ....o.O should i take asasi or matric??? and both are science

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  53. I totally agree with the post. Matric is not easy. Don't believe me? Check out STPM's organic chemistry and compare it to Matric's organic chemistry and you will see that STPM's organic chem is far more simplified to an extent where it is incomparable to Matric's syllabus.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. ONLY ORGANIC CHEMISTRY? WHAT ABOUT THE OTHER SUB TOPICS? OTHER SUBJECTS? FUNNY. PLEASE DONT MAKE ME LAUGH. SUCH CHILDISH PEOPLE COMMENTING SHIT

      Delete
  54. From my point of view, matriks seems unfair to non bumiputeras. I'm a non bumiputera and let me tell u something. If u get 4.00 and hoping that u will get a nice University and live happily ever after, well dream on people. The chance seems to be pretty small for that. Well for non bumiputeras, of course. Bumiputeras get much lower than that and guess what. Each of them will surely get a place in the University. There's no doubt about that. Quota people. It's all about quota. Please get on to that first.

    ReplyDelete
  55. Yes, it is all about racial quota, bumi students with no A in SPM are able to get into matrik too. The syllabus is comparatively tough, but the benchmark had been lowered to help many bumi students to get 4flat, many of them are not deserved 4flat!
    However, I am a matrik student, I still believe that chinese students are of top quality, and very competitive.
    After matrik, non-bumi students will face racial quota again as the biggest challenge in university placement.
    Therefore, all the best for STPM students, although fair education doesn't exist.
    and Good luck for the "1 Malaysia"

    ReplyDelete
  56. Somebody shared this on my Facebook wall. And well, after taking a look, it appears like I was reading nothing more than constant bickering between two sides who believe they're more superior than the other. Well, given the circumstances, I'd choose matriculation over STPM if I was given a choice, every single time! Look at how the world works now people, wake up and look! It's no longer a measurement of how hardworking you are or how much effort you've put, it's about how intelligent you work towards the top. The circumstances in Malaysia are simple to understand really. You want to get a university degree fast in Malaysia? Take matriculation, don't complain and don't look back. You have dough in your pockets (or maybe your parents' pockets)? Take STPM and be spoilt with the plethora of choices that await. Who knows, if you're lucky you'll get that coveted course at the top local universities in Malaysia. It's a matter of choice alright people? If you choose the life, then go through it. There's absolutely no reason to compare and contrast between two systems that will eventually get you there; a university degree. Work hard and smart fellow future graduates, the country doesn't need pointless bickering. The system maybe flawed, but as thinkers find a way to beat the system, or use the same system to get to your destination. It's your call people. Be thinkers, not bickerers

    ReplyDelete
  57. This is entirely a pile of bullshit! Can't believe I wasted a few minutes to read about your sorry life in matriculation instead of actually finding out what was so difficult in matrix.

    My brother graduated from matrix and he told me the subjects and tests were all piss. He needn't study as hard as he had during SPM to achieve flying colors. The matrix program was actually prepared to assist bumiputera students to 'excel', so the syllabus was extremely simplified and the test grades were lowered to help students enrol into IPTAs easily. Duh.

    That's why matriculation is not accepted by most private colleges in Malaysia as well as foreign universities as it doesn't meet the standard requirements. Matrix students will have their so-called honeymoon year during matrix year, but will suffer through hell and back on the first and probably second year of their degree course. This is what my brother told me, as well as other matrix students I know. They accepted the fact, but you didn't. Stop trying to bullshit us about the strict rules and regulations, curfews, blablabla. Matrix is easy, period. Accept the fact.

    ReplyDelete
  58. Well, Just so you know, our sun is starting to run out of hydrogen and in like 5 billion years it is gonna go all supergiant on our @$$es. And if that ain't enough, dark energy is pushing galaxies way more than the speed of light and may cause the 'big rip'. My point is, in the grand scheme of things, nothing matters. If you compare something relative to other, the matter that is subjected to the comparison lose it's unique trait. Ps, we are gonna blow up anyway. So it doesn't matter if you make your point.
    Spock out! Peaaaaace!..

    ReplyDelete
  59. I'm a matriculation student and I agree that our syllabus is easy. We don't have to suffer like stpm students. The whole purpose of matriculation is to enable the bumis to excel cuz they cannot survive song hard and global like stpm

    ReplyDelete
  60. Matriculation is easier, no doubt. No matter what your choice is, STPM/A-LEVEL/MATRIC/DIPLOMA all is up to your hand. Comparison could not change the system, the unfair system always will be used. study smart and hardwork is the key to success.BTW, What we should concern is how we will get the job after spending too much time studying ;p

    ReplyDelete
  61. I think the comparison of easier and much more quality are in term of the examination and the effort to get an A and enter a public university. Yes, matrics may trained to be much more independent but when come for sitting in the examination, matrics students are way way way easier than stpm as stpm students are harder and lesser tp get into public universities in percentage term!

    ReplyDelete
  62. The truth is…no matter what course you take, studying is not an easy agenda, unless you just sit there,do nothing and wait for an 'F' on your cert. Form 6, matrix or whatever you're studying, there's a purpose, so don't complain, don't compare, and please, 'be kind for everyone is facing a hard battle.' Plato

    ReplyDelete

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