JOHOR BARU: The government is considering extending monthly allowances to Form Six students, similar to those currently provided to students in the Matriculation Programme, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says.
He said the proposal is in line with pre-university education reforms, including transferring Form Six administration from the Education Ministry to the Higher Education Ministry.
"I agree that allowances for Form Six and matriculation students should be equalised. The policy decision has been made, and we are now working out the implementation mechanism," he said during a forum at the Temenggong Ibrahim teaching college here on Friday (April 24).
Anwar was responding to a question from a Form Six student on why Form Six students do not currently receive allowances like matriculation students, despite both being at the pre-university level.
Matriculation students currently receive a monthly RM250 living allowance.
The Permatang Pauh MP said students pursuing pre-university studies, whether in Form Six or matriculation, should enjoy equitable access to facilities and financial support, including scholarships.
Anwar added that the government's broader reform of the pre-university system aims to strengthen the status of both pathways.
He had previously announced that the Higher Education Ministry would fully oversee the pre-university education system, encompassing both Form Six and matriculation, beginning this year.
The move will formally recognise students in both programmes as part of the higher education ecosystem. - Bernama
