STUDENTS from B40 families will be eligible to receive free higher education starting next year, said Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi should the coalition capture Putrajaya.

Zahid said this while announcing BN’s manifesto tonight via live telecast as he pledged to abolish the textbook system by introducing a more digital schooling system.

“Learning will be conducted via laptops,” he said as he promised a more digitised schooling atmosphere.

“For this, BN will give free laptops to all B40 students and ensure that all schools will have 5G internet access within 18 months,” said Zahid, who heads Umno.

Zahid said the BN government will also look at reducing the cost of university studies with half of lessons to be held online.

He added students from higher learning institutes will receive paid allowances if they undergo practical training or internship.

“University students will get paid by the companies that are doing their internship. At campuses, half of the classes will be conducted online and the other half is from the classroom as we look to reduce the cost of studies.

“BN will also care for early childhood care as we look to provide free childcare and education for all children aged six and below, to help reduce the cost of living for young families,” said Zahid when unveiling the coalition’s manifesto for the general election.

The BN is offering a new and fresh deal to the people through its manifesto known as Padu (Perancangan Amal dan Usaha BN).

Zahid said the manifesto would be centred on two important strategies, which are to create political stability to form a strong government and to make Malaysia peaceful and prosperous.

“Padu will be a comprehensive national solution to address several pressing issues such as the high cost of living,” he said.

Malaysia goes to the polls on November 19. – November 7, 2022.