MADANI GOVT OPEN TO CRITICISM TO IMPROVE POLICIES - ADAM ADLI

MELAKA, Feb 11 (Bernama) -- The MADANI government remains open to constructive criticism, as such an approach has proven effective in improving policies, including the free education initiatives currently implemented for specific groups of students. 

Deputy Higher Education Minister Adam Adli Abdul Halim said the openness had produced positive outcomes, including the introduction of free education for students from the B40 income group and persons with disabilities (PwD), which had not been implemented previously.

“Some 10,000 B40 students are now receiving free education and about 3,000 PwD students will also benefit from the same initiative.

“This is an achievement that has never been implemented before, yet it is rarely highlighted,” he told reporters after officiating at the cheque presentation ceremony for the construction of an open hall at Sekolah Kebangsaan Ayer Keroh here today.

Commenting on travel restrictions imposed on defaulting National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) borrowers, Adam Adli said the government does not adopt a blanket policy as practised in the past.

“We do not agree with restricting all borrowers. Before any action is taken, the government assesses the borrower’s financial position, employment status and repayment capability. The restriction involves only about 0.7 per cent of defaulters who have high incomes, can afford to pay but refuse to negotiate.

“We prioritise negotiations and assistance to help them settle their loans because we cannot punish borrowers who took loans solely to pursue their studies. That principle remains, which is why we continuously seek ways to assist rather than pressure them,” he said.

Earlier, he presented a RM1 million cheque for the construction of an open hall to benefit more than 800 pupils and school staff, with completion expected within 48 weeks.

Adam Adli said the facility will include a stage, audio system, toilets and changing rooms to support the school’s curricular and co-curricular activities.

“The project is managed by the Implementation Coordination Unit (ICU) of the Prime Minister’s Department (JPM) Melaka and is among efforts to strengthen school infrastructure for the long-term comfort and benefit of the school community,” he added.

-- BERNAMA