KUALA LUMPUR: Travel bans will only be imposed on National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) borrowers who fail to settle their loans despite earning well or working overseas, the Dewan Rakyat was told.
Deputy Higher Education Minister Adam Adli Abdul Halim said there are certain other criteria for imposing travel bans.
"This is not a blanket policy but only in situations where stern action is needed.
"It will not apply to borrowers who have just completed their studies or have yet to find a job, what more those in the lower and middle income groups," he said during Question Time on Monday (Feb 9).
He said the ministry has also drawn up several initiatives to ease borrowers' burden after graduation, including a 12-month grace period before they have to start repaying the loans.
Those unable to pay according to schedule can also restructure their repayments until the age of 60.
"For those without jobs or income, the repayment can be deferred up to two years before we will initiate restructuring.
"The repayment period can also be delayed if a borrower is pursuing further studies," Adam Adli added.
To date, the deputy minister said, some RM77.5 bil has been disbursed to help more than 4.26 million students.
He added that the e-Kasih scholarship will be offered to about 10,000 eligible students, a significant increase from 5,800 previously.
Some 3,000 disabled students at public higher education institutions, polytechnics and community colleges also stand to obtain free education, he said.
"This reflects the compassion within the Malaysia Madani framework with emphasis on social justice and ensuring no one is left behind when it comes to education.
"This is just the beginning as more initiatives will be available for the rakyat once PTPTN loans are collected systematically without burdening borrowers," he said.
Datuk Seri Ismail Abd Muttalib (PN-Maran) wanted to know the steps taken to help graduates who have yet to get jobs but are barred from leaving the country for failing to repay their PTPTN loans.
He also asked about help for students from lower-income groups who have been forced to take part-time jobs during their studies as PTPTN funds are inadequate.
