PTPTN restructuring hits defaulters

Community outreach: Zambry (right) greeting school aid recipients at the Back To School Programme at Dewan Merdeka Kampung Tawas in Manjung. — Bernama

Changes will affect only non-paying borrowers, leaving others untouched

MANJUNG: The restructuring of the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) loan repayments will not affect borro­wers’ housing loans or other personal loans, says Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir.

The Higher Education Minister said the measure applies only to borrowers who have made no payments and those who have not contacted PTPTN to discuss their financial situation.

“I often emphasise that we are guided by the principle of ‘compassion’. Those facing difficulties can come forward to discuss their situation.

“PTPTN and its chief executive, Ahmad Dasuki Abdul Majid, can confirm the government’s directive to provide space for discussion,” he said, Bernama reported.

The minister was speaking to reporters after presenting aid to 1,350 students under the Back to School Programme.

Zambry said the National Edu­ca­tion Savings Scheme (SSPN), which now totals around RM20bil, reflects growing awareness among parents about saving for their children’s education.

“The response to SSPN has been very encouraging, with dividends increasing each year.

“I encourage parents to save through SSPN to secure their child­ren’s educational future,” he said.

Zambry said besides PTPTN loans, the government provides various programmes to help students, particularly those from low-income families, pursue higher education.

On another matter, Zambry, who is an Umno supreme council member, said proposals made by Umno Youth, including on the party’s position in the unity government, will be submitted to the supreme council for deliberation.

He said that while views expres­sed by any wing were within their rights, decisions on Umno’s direction would be made through the party’s established decision- making structure.

“That is the view of the youth wing.

“Any views, demands or proposals will be referred to the sup­reme council,” he said.

Zambry said the party’s decision-making process is conducted collectively and maturely, in line with Umno’s traditions and practices.

On Saturday, Umno Youth held a special convention and one of the outcomes was to propose for the party to ditch the unity government and unite with PAS to become a “dignified opposition”.

Despite the proposal, the wing does not intend to see the current administration overthrown through “backdoor” or “roof hacking” manoeuvres.