KOTA KINABALU: Sugut state assemblyman Datuk James Ratib has stepped in to assist Crisnanalina Jumis, a student who faced financial challenges in pursuing her higher education at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS).
James said he found out about Crisnanalina, who is from Kg Dalamas in Paitan after her story was reported in newspapers and went viral on social media.
James vowed to ensure that no student in his constituency drops out of higher education due to financial constraints.
"Any Sugut student who has received an offer to further their studies should not hesitate or remain silent. As a representative of the people of Sugut, I am always open to help as much as I can.
"It is impossible for me not to help if parents or students reach out to me, whether by phone, letter, or in-person meetings with me or my representatives in the Sugut area," said the Sabah Community Development and People's Wellbeing.
James said he had handed over RM3,000 to Crisnanalina through his Public Relations Secretary (SUPA).
It was reported that Crisnanalina, 20, has been accepted into UMS after completing her Form 6 at SMK Pitas. Despite receiving an offer to study at UMS, Crisnanalina's family is unable to afford the RM3,000 required for her registration, with the deadline on Oct 14, plus other expenses.
UMS had reached out to Crisnanalina to facilitate her admission to the university.
Meanwhile, Deputy Higher Education Minister Datuk Mustapha Sakmud said the ministry is committed to ensuring equal opportunities for all students.
He noted that the saying, "It takes a village to raise a child," holds true in this situation.
"I am very grateful to the media and Malaysians who are very concerned about higher education opportunities for the children of Sabah. The story of Crisnanalina who experienced difficulties in continuing her studies at UMS is a true reality for our children in the interior."
Mustapha revealed that UMS has taken immediate action by making arrangements to bring Crisnanalina to the university and assist her with the registration process, set to take place this Friday.
"We are doing our best to simplify the registration process for students in need. The Ministry of Higher Education, through the Student Welfare and Finance Division and the UMS Student Affairs Department, will also coordinate suitable aid and ensure that Crisnanalina's educational and welfare needs are met," he added.
He explained the assistance provided is not limited to Crisnanalina alone. There are numerous forms of financial aid available for students from both the federal and state governments, which can be accessed through the university's Student Affairs Department (HEP).
In addition, the Yayasan Perkasa Siswa (YPS-KPT) will provide initial assistance worth RM1,000, which will be deposited directly to Crisnanalina's account for early preparations to start her studies.