Zambry tells PTPTN defaulters to think of others in need


PETALING JAYA: Defaulters of National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) loans are stubborn borrowers who blatantly ignore and dismiss the fund’s repeated appeals to discuss their financial situations and explore possible repayment arrangements, says Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir.

The Higher Education Minister said this demonstrates a lack of responsibility and compassion towards others, including students eagerly awaiting access to PTPTN loans.

Currently, PTPTN requires at least RM3bil to support 450,000 existing borrowers and 150,000 new students.

However, arrears from 1.25 million defaulters totalled RM11.32bil, he said.

“While the government remains committed to easing their financial burdens by encouraging open communication and dialogue with PTPTN, we must adopt a firm stance against those who sever all communication and fail to make any repayment, even after securing employment.

“It is crucial to uphold fairness and ensure the sustainability of the loan programme for the benefit of future generations,” said Zambry when contacted.

However, he said while the government wants to be firm, it is open to easing the financial burdens of loan defaulters and hearing them out.

The minister was in the United Kingdom accompanying Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for an official visit.

Zambry was commenting on the recent effort by PTPTN to encourage loan defaulters to pay up.

Under the newly launched “myPTPTN Anytime, Anywhere!” campaign from Jan 1 to March 31, borrowers have the opportunity to win cash prizes totalling RM25,000.

Borrowers can participate via the myPTPTN app, with 25 winners set to receive RM1,000 each in the form of loan repayment credits.

Participation is automatic for borrowers who make a minimum repayment of RM100 during the campaign period, which entitles them to 10 slots in the draw.

On whether it would seem unfair to those who paid up diligently by offering such incentives to defaulters, PTPTN said such a campaign was needed as the fund was under tremendous pressure due to the RM11.32bil in arrears.

“PTPTN is seriously addressing the current challenges in ensuring that loan repayments are carried out by borrowers.

“This issue not only involves the responsibility of the borrowers but also touches on the need to ensure the sustainability of PTPTN’s funds to allow future generations to continue benefiting from higher education opportunities,” said PTPTN in a statement recently.

“PTPTN continuously intensifies efforts to encourage borrowers to fulfil their responsibilities. These steps include reaching out to borrowers, sending reminder notices, and implementing the Lestari Education Campaign launched in December 2024.

“Since the campaign began, PTPTN has recorded an increase in repayment collections.

“PTPTN understands that some borrowers are genuinely facing financial difficulties. Therefore, we urge them to come forward and discuss with PTPTN to restructure their repayments through flexible plans that suit their financial capabilities,” it added.

Borrowers can contact PTPTN through the myPTPTN app, Careline hotline, live chat, or through customer service officers.

They can also visit any of PTPTN’s 57 branches nationwide.

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