UKM SUPPORTS KPT'S DAPUR SISWA INITIATIVE, STRENGTHENS STUDENTS' WELFARE

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 6 (Bernama) -- The allocation of RM15 million for the implementation of the Dapur Siswa initiative under the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) is a timely and high-impact measure to address cost-of-living pressures faced by students, particularly in ensuring that basic needs such as food are consistently met throughout their period of study.

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), in a statement today, welcomed the allocation announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim yesterday.

UKM Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Student Affairs and Alumni (HEPA), Prof Ts Dr Norinsan Kamil Othman, said that as a university that places strong emphasis on student welfare, UKM has long implemented various forms of structured and continuous support through its e-Prihatin approach.

“Among the initiatives already in place are targeted welfare assistance, mental and emotional well-being support through the HaloKaunselor application, as well as immediate intervention for students facing financial hardship,” he said.

He added that this approach reflects UKM’s firm commitment to holistically addressing student welfare, guided by the value of ihsan.

In addition, Norinsan said UKM has also implemented the Gerobok Rezeki initiative across various faculties, enabling students to access food and basic necessities in a prudent and dignified manner.

At the residential college level, he said the implementation of Menu Rahmah provides nutritious meals at affordable prices, helping to ease students’ daily financial burden.

The university’s Student Affairs and Alumni Department (HEPA UKM), he said, remains committed to ensuring that every welfare initiative is implemented effectively and comprehensively, so that no UKM student faces hunger or is forced to discontinue their studies due to financial difficulties.

He expressed his highest appreciation to the Ministry of Higher Education and the Malaysian government for introducing the Dapur Siswa initiative.

“With continued support from all parties, including alumni, industry partners and non-governmental organisations (NGOs), UKM will continue to strengthen its role as a caring and resilient university that places student welfare as its top priority,” he said.

--BERNAMA