PTPTN has expressed support for the government’s decision to expand its scholarship and free education initiative for students from hardcore poor households to 10,000 recipients under the Malaysian Higher Education Blueprint 2026–2035.
The expansion was announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and represents a near doubling from the 5,800 students previously covered under Budget 2026, which carried an annual allocation of RM120 million for those studying at public higher education institutions.
PTPTN said the move reinforces the government’s commitment to ensuring wider and more equitable access to higher education, particularly for students facing severe financial and socio-economic challenges.
PTPTN chairman Datuk Seri Norliza Abdul Rahim said, “The near doubling of beneficiaries is expected to provide greater access to higher education for children from hardcore poor families.”
She added, “This step will also help break the cycle of poverty by positioning education as a key catalyst for social mobility and the development of national human capital.”
The expanded initiative will focus on students from hardcore poor families listed in the e-Kasih database, with education costs fully covered through PTPTN.
PTPTN said it will work with relevant agencies to ensure the policy is implemented effectively and that the intended beneficiaries receive support as planned.
