IN its bid to enhance student welfare, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) is actively planning the implementation of its own Dapur Siswa (Student Kitchen).
UKM deputy vice-chancellor for students and alumni affairs (HEPA) Prof Dr Norinsan Kamil Othman (pic) said the kitchen will be strategically located at Pusanika, the UKM Mosque and several residential colleges.
The move follows Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent announcement of an RM15mil allocation for the Bank Makanan Dapur Siswa food bank programme to support university students.
Describing the initiative as a timely and high-impact measure, Prof Norinsan said it addresses the cost-of-living pressures faced by students, particularly by ensuring that basic needs such as food are consistently met throughout their studies.
He added that the implementation of the student kitchen at UKM will complement existing efforts, strengthening the student food support network in a more organised, sustainable and impactful manner.
“Existing efforts include targeted welfare assistance, mental and emotional well-being support via the HaloKaunselor app, and immediate interventions for students facing financial constraints.
“This approach reflects UKM’s clear commitment to addressing student welfare holistically and with compassion,” he said in a Jan 6 press release.
Prof Norinsan also noted that UKM has implemented Gerobok Rezeki at its faculties as a food and essential goods sharing initiative.
“At the residential college level, the Menu Rahmah initiative provides nutritious meal options at affordable prices, helping to ease students’ daily financial burden.
“Both initiatives have directly benefited the campus community and form part of UKM’s inclusive student welfare ecosystem,” he said.
He added that with continued support from all parties, including alumni, industry partners and non-governmental organisations, UKM will continue to strengthen its role as a caring and resilient university that places student welfare as a top priority.
“UKM HEPA is committed to ensuring that each welfare initiative is implemented effectively and comprehensively, so that no student is left behind or faces hunger during their studies,” he said.
The Higher Education Ministry, in a Facebook post on Jan 5, said the RM15mil allocation comes from Sumbangan Asas Rahmah funds that were unspent last year.
“The ministry’s Dapur Siswa programme has been expanded to all institutions of higher learning to assist students in need.
“The initiative is part of efforts to address student food insecurity and ensure that students’ welfare is supported as they pursue their studies,” it said.
Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir, in a Facebook post on the same day, said the RM15mil allocation aims to ensure that student welfare continues to be safeguarded.
“As I have always emphasised, we no longer want to hear of students going hungry, students unable to afford a meal, or students having to skip meals due to lack of food,” he added.
