KUALA LUMPUR: The Higher Education Ministry hopes for an increase in its allocation under Budget 2027, said Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir.
He said student welfare, facilities and accommodation at universities, polytechnics and community colleges were among the ministry’s key priorities.
“We hope for an increase in the budget, which, as you know, covers both development and management expenditure,” he said at the launch of the 2026 National Academia Day and Month Celebration on Monday (Oct 5).
He said some facilities at higher education institutions (HEI’s) were ageing and required improvements, while accommodation remained another area needing attention.
“For example, we need to look at the welfare aspect of students.
“In terms of the condition of places in universities and polytechnic community colleges that require improvements, some have been there for a long time.
“And these are among the matters of concern to all of us, and the government understands this, which is why we have already arranged the steps forward,” he said
Under Budget 2026, the Higher Education Ministry received RM18.60bil, including RM400mil for maintaining infrastructure and replacing outdated equipment at public universities, polytechnics and community colleges.
Meanwhile, more than 1,000 academics and students from HEIs nationwide attended the National Academia Day and Month Celebration 2026.
Held under the theme “Synergy of Knowledge, Technology, and Innovation in Academia,” the event recognised the contributions of academics to the advancement of higher education while reaffirming the role of HEIs in driving knowledge, research and innovation for the nation.
Zambry said the celebration was important in recognising the contributions of academics, scholars, intellectuals and researchers to the country.
“When expertise is given room to flourish, talent is nurtured, and knowledge is aligned with the nation's needs, we are capable of bringing about significant change,” he said.
