Kuala terengganu: A total of RM24 billion in deposits from 7.314 million accounts under the Simpanan Pendidikan Nasional Scheme (Simpan SSPN) has been recorded as of February, according to the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, PTPTN chairman Datuk Seri Norliza Abdul Rahim attributed the achievement to several campaigns carried out by the corporation last year, including the Bulan Menabung Simpan SSPN (BMS), which was held from September to November. The campaign saw Simpan SSPN deposits surpass 100 percent of the initial target of RM220 million.
"This achievement also reflects growing awareness among Malaysians of the importance of saving for their children's higher education," Norliza stated during a press conference at the Program Komuniti dan Penyampaian Sumbangan Akuan Simpan SSPN held at Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Bukit Besi. Also present were Universiti Malaysia Terengganu vice-chancellor Prof Ir Ts Dr Mohd Zamri Ibrahim and UMT Holdings Sdn Bhd chairman Datuk Dr Din Adam.
During the programme, 200 students received contributions of RM50 each in Simpan SSPN Prime Accounts from PTPTN, totaling RM10,000. Norliza announced that PTPTN plans to initiate more programmes to encourage greater participation in SSPN, particularly among residents in the B40 group in rural areas and Felda settlements. Despite a relatively high awareness of the importance of savings among rural residents, further efforts are needed to enhance it.
Norliza also mentioned that PTPTN is exploring ways to assist more rural residents in opening Simpan SSPN accounts, including leveraging corporate social responsibility (CSR) and wakaf funds. "It takes just RM20 per person to open a Simpan SSPN account. After that, even those with just RM30 a month can save that sum each month," she explained.
Meanwhile, Datuk Dr Din Adam highlighted that UMT Holdings had contributed RM25 each in SSPN savings to the 200 students involved. He indicated that UMT Holdings plans to assist more students in Bukit Besi and other areas in opening SSPN accounts, motivating them to excel in their studies and pursue higher education successfully. Din further noted that the programme aligns with UMT Holdings' commitment to supporting the development of education and community well-being sustainably.