UiTM Pasir Gudang students with their tablets handed out by Mustaffa (back row, seventh from right). Among the recipients are (front row) Ali Asymawi (second left), Nur Anis (fifth left) and Aina Farzana (fifth right).
FOR tertiary students from low-income families like 20-year-old Nur Anis Alliesya Nazri, every bit of assistance is helpful to lighten their financial burden.
The Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Pasir Gudang student said receiving a tablet device from Pasir Gudang City Council (MBPG) was a timely boost for her education journey.
“I lost my father in June, and am being raised by my mum alone, so I always try not to trouble my family financially.
“I usually save up to get what I need for my studies.
“Receiving the tablet during exam week is perfect timing as I can review lecture notes and work on past-year questions anytime, anywhere,” she told StarMetro.
Nur Anis Alliesya was among 11 UiTM Pasir Gudang students who received tablets through the MBPG initiative.
The event was held at the university campus.
Nur Anis Alliesya said the lightweight device was more convenient than her faulty laptop, particularly for reviewing materials and creating presentation slides.
Another recipient, business studies (transport) student Ali Asymawi Ali Hanafiah, 20, said he was surprised to receive the contribution from MBPG.
“I am thankful for the tablet because my old phone and laptop lag, which makes learning or being in class quite challenging.
“With this aid, I do not have to buy a new device and that saves me a lot of money. I look forward to using it during my weekly online lessons,” he said.
For electrical engineering student Aina Farzana Norizan, 20, the contribution has improved her productivity and efficiency.
“I can now switch between tasks faster, stay more organised and participate more actively during online discussions and presentations.
“Before this, I only had a laptop so having a second device gives me more flexibility and makes it easier to manage my academic work, especially when I’m outside,” said Aina Farzana.
She hopes similar support will continue so that more students, especially those without access to suitable learning tools, can benefit from it.
“This contribution has eased my family’s financial burden. Buying a new device would have been costly.
“I think MBPG’s initiative is very thoughtful as it shows concern for students’ needs and supports our learning in this digital age,” Aina Farzana added.
Pasir Gudang mayor Datuk Mustaffa Kamal Shamsudin, who presented the devices, reminded students to value the opportunity to further their studies and to set the right intention in their academic pursuit.
Meanwhile, UiTM Pasir Gudang assistant rector Dr Siti Khadijah Alias expressed hope that the aid would inspire students to keep striving despite challenges. — By MYSARA FAUZI
