KOTA KINABALU: Borrowers of the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) loans are not being pressured into settling large amounts, says the Higher Education Ministry.
Its Deputy Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud (pic) assured borrowers that the government is adopting a “win-win” approach, ensuring that those facing financial difficulties 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.
He urged borrowers with outstanding loans to visit PTPTN offices and discuss their repayment options openly.
“If they are facing financial difficulties, we will not force repayment but will offer restructuring plans to ease their burden,” he explained.
Mustapha acknowledged that there had been misconceptions that some borrowers were being pressured to settle amounts as high as RM1mil.
“However, our approach is based on a win-win solution between PTPTN and borrowers,” he said, encouraging loan holders to proactively engage with the agency.
He stressed that the government is not enforcing rigid payment demands but is instead offering restructuring plans to alleviate financial strain.
Beyond repayment flexibility, Mustapha highlighted the government’s efforts to ensure equitable access to higher education.
To encourage financial preparedness, initiatives like the National Education Savings Scheme (SSPN) under PTPTN have been introduced, allowing parents to save for their children’s university education.
At the event, children of media practitioners received SSPN contributions to instil early saving habits.
Beyond loan repayment flexibility, Mustapha also touched on the evolving landscape of higher education, particularly the integration of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) into university curricula.
“Malaysia is actively working to integrate emerging technologies into higher education to ensure our graduates are equipped for the demands of industries such as Nvidia, Infineon and AWS,” the Deputy Minister said.
He noted that the government had already taken steps in this direction, including the establishment of an AI faculty at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia last year.
In addition, most Malaysian universities are now offering programmes focused on AI, automation, and other advanced technologies to prevent talent mismatches in the job market.
“Our goal is to produce top-tier talent that meets industry needs, ensuring graduates secure employment in high-demand sectors,” Mustapha stressed.
The ministry, he added, remains committed to fostering a supportive educational ecosystem, ensuring that both students and loan borrowers receive the necessary assistance to succeed in their academic and professional pursuits.
