DEPUTY Higher Education Minister Mohammad Yusof Apdal said Malaysians were in general agreement that the responsibility to repay National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) must be fulfilled.

He said this public feedback was obtained at the ministry’s Higher Education Open Day on October 23.

“We are faced with an unfair situation where many are not accountable or responsible, so there must be fairness.

“They borrow the money to study but when they become successful and secure a job, they do not pay back the dues, which not only creates a conundrum for PTPTN, which has to bear a huge debt, but, even worse, robs others of the opportunity to pursue further studies,” he said on Bernama TV’s “Ruang Bicara” last night.

He encouraged the public to attend the Madani government’s first anniversary celebration at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium from tomorrow until Sunday, where consultancy services to manage PTPTN repayments would be provided.

Repayment discounts of up to 15% would also be available, he said.

“The government has approved this discount from October 14, 2023, to March 31, 2024, but there are still many who have not taken up this opportunity. For students who make payments during the event, there will be special gifts given in addition to the discounts.

“Facilities to open and make deposits for SSPN (National Education Savings Scheme) accounts will also be provided,” he said.

Regarding direct admission offers to select public universities, polytechnics and community colleges, Yusof said Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) graduates who have not secured varsity placement could visit the MOHE’s booth at the event.

“Candidates who do not have SPM qualifications and are interested in continuing their studies are also welcome to visit the MOHE booth ... we have a programme at community colleges for lifelong learning, which will allow those without minimum qualifications to enrol in a community college,” he said.

Earlier, MOHE announced it would offer 24,500 placements at polytechnics, community colleges and Universiti Teknologi Mara in conjunction with the unity government’s first anniversary. – Bernama, December 8, 2023.