KOTA KINABALU: The Higher Education Ministry has reassured National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) borrowers that flexibility in repayment schedules will remain.
This was to dispel misconceptions that borrowers are being pressured into settling large amounts, Deputy Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud said.
He added that the government is adopting a win-win approach in PTPTN loan repayments to ensure that those in financial difficulty are not unduly burdened.
“The key message here is simple: don’t avoid repayment entirely. Come forward and engage with us to find a viable solution,” he said at a media appreciation iftar event here on Thursday (March 27).
He urged those with outstanding loans to visit PTPTN offices and discuss their repayment options.
“If they are facing financial difficulties, we will not force repayment but will offer restructuring plans,” he added.
Mustapha acknowledged misconceptions that some borrowers were being pressured to settle amounts as high as RM1mil.
He reiterated that the government will not make rigid payment demands but is willing to discuss restructured schedules.
Beyond this, Mustapha highlighted the government's efforts to ensure equitable access to higher education.
He said such initiatives as the National Education Savings Scheme (SSPN) under PTPTN have been introduced to help parents save for their children's university education.
At the event, children of media practitioners received SSPN contributions to instil early saving habits.
Also present was Sabah Journalists Association president Datuk Muguntan Vanar.
Mustapha also touched on the evolving landscape of higher education, particularly the integration of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) into university curricula.
“Malaysia is working to integrate emerging technologies into higher education to ensure our graduates are equipped for (tech industry) demands," he said.
He noted that the government had already taken steps in this direction, including the establishment of an AI faculty at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) last year.
In addition, most universities in Malaysia are now offering programmes focused on AI, automation and other advanced technologies to prevent skills mismatch in the job market.
“Our goal is to produce top-tier talent that meets industry needs, ensuring that graduates secure employment in high-demand sectors,” he said.
Mustapha added that the ministry is committed to fostering a supportive education ecosystem, ensuring that both students and loan borrowers receive the necessary assistance to succeed in their pursuits.
