THE National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) yesterday launched its "Jom Bayar PTPTN" campaign to mark its "Hari Mesra Pelanggan PTPTN", to boost borrowers' engagement and loan repayments.
PTPTN chief executive Ahmad Dasuki Abdul Majid, who officiated at the event, said: "Jom Bayar PTPTN" would be held at all PTPTN state offices as well as branches, until Dec 31.
"Up to Oct 31, 3.92 million borrowers have been approved for PTPTN loans amounting to RM70.91 billion.
"PTPTN remains committed to ensuring borrowers consistently repay their loans for the sustainability of funds for future generations.
"By Oct 31, 2.25 million borrowers, or 83.05 per cent of those required to make repayments, have begun repaying their loans.
"We extend our thanks to borrowers for being responsible, and hope that this practice will be emulated by others."
He emphasised PTPTN's efforts to adopt a more user-centric approach to encourage borrowers to actively communicate with PTPTN.
This, he said, was its strategy to boost loan repayments by making the interaction process between borrowers and PTPTN more borrower-friendly.
He said PTPTN had also initiated programmes that could help borrowers get information easily, and expanded its online payment options and improved efforts to boost awareness about educational funds.
According to PTPTN, it has recently extended its operating hours for borrowers.
People can now visit its branches from 8.30am to 6pm on weekdays, and 9am to 5pm on Saturdays.
PTPTN has also introduced special offers under the "Jom Bayar PTPTN" campaign.
They include significant incentives, such as a maximum 15 per cent discount for PTPTN loan repayments until March 31 next year.
There is a 10 per cent discount for full settlement of the loan, a 10 per cent discount for the payment of at least 50 per cent of the outstanding balance, as well as a 15 per cent discount for salary deductions or scheduled direct debits.
Additionally, PTPTN is running a prize draw, with cash prizes totalling RM70,000 for 140 winners. Each state will offer 10 attractive prizes.
The promotion period for this draw began on Dec 1 and will conclude at the end of the month.
Ahmad Dasuki said: "Entry requirements are straightforward. Borrowers who make loan repayments during the promotion period with a minimum payment of RM300 will qualify for one draw entry.
"What's more exciting is that borrowers making loan repayments through the myPTPTN app will receive multiple draw entries. Therefore, use the app to increase your chances of winning."
PTPTN has provided frontliners through the #PTPTNSediaBantu initiative to assist borrowers with inquiries or concerns regarding their loan repayments.
Borrowers can now get information from the call centre (careline) at 03-2193 3000, Live Chat on the PTPTN Portal (www.ptptn.gov.my), PTPTN marketing executives, e-Aduan PTPTN, and PTPTN's social media platforms.
Ahmad Dasuki said: "This is the best opportunity for borrowers to negotiate with PTPTN officers. Borrowers can not only enjoy loan repayment discounts but also have the chance to restructure loans with more attractive offers, win substantial prizes and receive exclusive souvenirs from PTPTN.
"This 4-in-1 benefit is highly worthwhile for borrowers."
Since its inception in 1997, PTPTN has been dedicated to managing savings and loans through robust, cohesive and strategic governance.
This commitment is in line with the government's vision of establishing PTPTN to democratise education and grant the community access to higher education opportunities.
Functioning as an entity under the Higher Education Ministry, PTPTN holds a pivotal position in bolstering the government's goal of ensuring the longevity and inclusivity of higher education.