STUDENT bodies have welcomed the Transport Ministry’s move to introduce an initiative allowing public institutions of higher learning (IPTA) students to buy flight tickets at discounted rates from August.

Transport Minister Anthony Loke said yesterday the ministry will launch an initiative next month to ease the financial burden of IPTA students, especially those from Sabah and Sarawak, in buying flight tickets.

Loke said the initiative, which is expected to benefit around 50,000 students, is being integrated with airlines. He hopes it can be launched before Merdeka.

International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) student union president Muntasir Aznan said it would provide immense relief for students.

“This issue has been ongoing for some time and I’m glad it is now on the verge of being resolved,” Muntasir told The Malaysian Insight.

“Usually, students from Sabah and Sarawak are those impacted by higher airfare, particularly during festive seasons.

“Some would be forced to stay back because of the pricey tickets and can’t be with their families during the festivity.

“I hope this initiative will put an end to all that,” he said.

Muntasir said he is hoping for the initiative to take off without hindrances or setbacks.

Universiti Malaya student group Demokrat UM spokesman Carlos Sebastien John said he commends the Transport Ministry for its efforts in introducing the initiative for students who need to fly to and from university throughout their studies.

“Many students cannot afford to travel home during peak periods due to exorbitant flight prices. Any aid would help,” he said.

Loke also launched local aviation company MYAirline’s Student Programme yesterday. He announced the airline would offer a 20% fare discount and 15kg complimentary baggage allowance to students (aged between 16 and 26) flying domestically.

Sebastian said a 20% discount would certainly help, but said it would not be enough during festive seasons when ticket prices peak.

“We struggle to see how a 20% discount can help students, especially those of lower socio-economic (statuses), to still travel home amid high demand and mostly fully booked flights,” he said.

“We want to understand how the application of these discounts will be implemented. Would there be an application stage for each ticket? Or can anyone buy a student-price ticket? And what documentation is necessary to prove student status?

“Would such discounts be made available should (students have) a family emergency that requires a trip back home?” Sebastian asked.

Sebastian said he hopes there won’t be any hiccups during the implementation of the initiative.

“We definitely recognise the progress in ensuring tertiary education becomes more accessible with (less) financial burden.

“We urge the government to look into all possible scenarios that might arise to ensure this programme meets its expected success,” he said. – July 1, 2023.