Abdul Wahab leaves enduring legacy as ‘Father of MRSM’

SHAH ALAM - The death of Abdul Wahab Mohd Alwi, widely remembered as the ‘Father of MRSM’, marks the passing of an education visionary whose efforts helped open the doors of science education to generations of Malaysian children.

Wahab, who died at 3am on Aug 25 at the age of 84, was a former director of Mara’s Training Division and among the key figures behind the conceptualisation and establishment of Maktab Rendah Sains Mara (MRSM).

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim paid tribute to Wahab, describing his contribution to national education as significant, particularly in expanding access to science education.

“The late Wahab's contribution to conceptualising and developing the MRSM initiative was a major contribution to the history of education in the country, particularly in expanding access to science education for Malaysian children.

“May Allah SWT shower His mercy upon his soul, forgive his sins and place him among His righteous servants,” Anwar said in a Facebook post.

Anwar said Wahab’s efforts had helped MRSM develop into an institution that produced Malaysians who were knowledgeable, skilled and successful across various fields.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister, similarly described Wahab as one of the key figures behind the idea and establishment of MRSM.

“From an idea that was pursued with great determination, an institution was born that, to this day, continues to open up educational opportunities and shape the future of the nation’s children,” he said in a Facebook post.

Zahid said Wahab and his team prepared a proposal and worked to secure the necessary support before the establishment of MRSM was approved in 1970.

Wahab subsequently played a role in selecting the teaching staff and principal for MRSM Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, which became the country’s first MRSM in 1972.

Wahab’s contribution, however, extended beyond the establishment of physical institutions. His broader vision was to make quality education and opportunity accessible to talented ‘Bumiputera’ children regardless of their backgrounds or geographical location.

Serving under the late Tun Abdul Razak, Wahab helped turn the concept of residential science colleges into a national educational programme.

The early MRSMs in Seremban, Kota Bharu, Kuantan, Kulim and Kuala Terengganu eventually grew into a nationwide network that has produced professionals in fields ranging from medicine and engineering to education, science, business and public administration.

His approach to education was also rooted in discovery and independent thinking rather than rote learning. He advocated learning environments that encouraged students to ask questions, investigate problems and develop confidence beyond the classroom.

Among the concepts associated with his educational philosophy was the “open class”, which he intended to represent learning without intellectual boundaries, as well as the homeroom system, which emphasised mentorship and closer relationships between students and teachers.

His guiding philosophy was encapsulated in a simple instruction: “Never retire your brains.”

Wahab also believed that Malaysia’s students should not be restricted by conventional educational destinations.

During his time in Mara, opportunities for students to study overseas expanded beyond traditional Commonwealth destinations, enabling thousands to pursue education and professional training abroad.

His commitment to public service was similarly reflected in his decision to remain with Mara despite opportunities in the private sector. His work was driven by the belief that education could transform not only individuals but entire families and communities.

Wahab was laid to rest at Tanah Perkuburan Islam Elmina following funeral arrangements at Surau Al Mahdi and funeral prayers at Masjid Raja Bendahara Tengku Badar Shah.

His passing on Maulidur Rasul adds a poignant dimension to the farewell for a man whose life was devoted to knowledge, service and the advancement of others.

For MARA, MCKK and the wider MRSM community, Wahab’s departure represents the loss of an educator and nation-builder whose influence will continue through institutions and generations long after his passing.

His greatest monument is therefore not a building bearing his name, but the countless Malaysians whose lives became possible because he believed that talent deserved an opportunity.

May Allahyarham Wahab’s service become a continuing source of ‘sadaqah jariah’ and may he be granted mercy, forgiveness and a place among the righteous.