Accra:The increased allocation for the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) in Budget 2027 underscores the government's commitment to enhancing higher education as a hub for academic excellence, talent development, and innovation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, MOHE announced that its budget allocation has increased to RM19.1 billion, highlighting the government's focus on expanding access to quality education and ensuring student welfare.
A sum of RM800 million is designated for upgrading infrastructure at public higher education institutions, including lecture halls, student accommodations, and learning equipment, aimed at improving the overall learning environment. Additionally, Universiti Malaya will receive a new student residence for 10,000 students, and the Retirement Fund (Incorporated) (KWAP) will invest RM750 million in the Vista Kampus Project at six institutions, addressing accommodation costs, housing, and transportation issues for students.
MOHE also revealed that the FLYSiswa flight ticket subsidy will increase to RM500, benefiting more than 60,000 students by reducing travel expenses between Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah, and Sarawak. The MADANI Student Kitchen Programme will be expanded to polytechnics and teacher education institutes, ensuring students have access to affordable meals.
Furthermore, an income tax deduction incentive of up to 10 percent for external contributions to universities has been introduced to motivate corporate, industry, alumni, and public support for university development and welfare.
MOHE expressed support for the government's new flexibility in PTPTN loan repayments, benefiting over 400,000 borrowers. This includes deferments for those earning less than RM2,500 monthly, minimum repayments of RM50 for those earning between RM2,500 and RM3,000, and a 10 percent discount for borrowers without arrears who maintain consistent repayments.
The ministry added that tax incentives for employers who assist in settling their employees' education loans reflect a comprehensive approach to alleviating graduates' financial burdens while enhancing the sustainability of higher education funding.