KUALA LUMPUR: The National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) is committed to ensuring that higher education remains inclusive and sustainable for all layers of society through various initiatives and campaigns.
The corporation has consistently conveyed the message about social responsibility in loan repayment, the sustainability of educational funds for future generations, and emphasising its commitment as an institution that supports the development of higher education.
Among its efforts is a transformative initiative aimed at reshaping Malaysia's higher education landscape.
This initiative highlights the crucial role of education in national development while addressing the pressing RM11.32 billion repayment backlog in student loans, which pose a significant threat to the sustainability of educational funding.
PTPTN chairman Datuk Seri Norliza Abdul Rahim said this effort reflected PTPTN's commitment to empowering the future of the country's human capital.
The initiative aligns seamlessly with government policies and the Malaysia Madani vision, which champions well-being, social justice and sustainability.
It supports the Higher Education Ministry's Strategic Higher Education Plan and the National Higher Education Policy, enhancing efforts to make higher education more accessible.
"Higher education is the primary platform for shaping a progressive society, and PTPTN plays a strategic role in making this aspiration a reality," Norliza said.
Its central message is to empowerMalaysians through education and facilitating effective financial management.
"PTPTN believes that higher education is key to improving living standards and providing equal opportunities for all. However, this can only be achieved if educational funds remain sustainable, which requires cooperation and commitment from borrowers to settle their loans," said Norliza.
The initiative seeks to reshape public perception, illustrating that loan repayments are a collective responsibility vital for ensuring sustainable higher education for future generations.
To aid borrowers, PTPTN offers repayment options, including debt restructuring and open communication channels, allowing them to settle their loans without undue financial strain.
"PTPTN not only assists individuals in managing their finances but also fosters a more responsible society that understands education as a transformative tool," said Norliza.
However, the challenge remains significant.
The RM11.32 billion loan arrears involve more than 1.25 million borrowers, with more than 430,000 having never made a single payment, amounting to RM5.46 billion in outstanding debts.
Each year, PTPTN requires RM3 billion to support 450,000 existing borrowers and 150,000 new ones, so these arrears jeopardise funds meant for future students.
"This challenge requires community cooperation to ensure higher education remains inclusive and sustainable," said Norliza.
"If this backlog continues, higher education opportunities for future generations will be affected."
Following this long-standing issue, PTPTN has introduced measures to deal with this challenge, notably a flexible repayment plan that allows borrowers facing financial challenges to negotiate and structure a loan repayment plan according to their financial ability.
In addition, initiatives to make it easier for borrowers such as various channels that are easier, faster and safer and help to facilitate borrowers who have any questions or matters related to loan repayment are also being implemented.
There are five categories of front- liners that borrowers can contact to deal with PTPTN without having to come to the PTPTN counter: CARELINERS at 03-2193 3000;
LIVE CHAT ON THE PTPTN PORTAL (www.ptptn.gov.my);
PTPTN e-ADUAN OFFICER (https://eaduan.ptptn.gov.my/);
PTPTN SALES EXECUTIVE (https://www.ptptn.gov.my/hubunguni-ptptn); and,
PTPTN OFFICIAL SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS
"We also facilitate repayments through digital solutions like the myPTPTN application, and also raise awareness about the importance of loan repayments," said Norliza.
More than just a promotional effort, PTPTN is calling on all stakeholders, including borrowers, society, and PTPTN itself, to work collaboratively towards a sustainable higher education system.
Each repayment contributes not only to the continuation of the education fund but also opens doors for future generations to realise their academic aspirations.
"One important aspect of this initiative is detailed explanations, where facts and data are shared transparently and openly to clarify the importance of repayments," said Norliza.
"Funds collected through repayments support 450,000 existing borrowers and 150,000 new students annually, particularly those from low-income families who urgently require educational support."
PTPTN aspires to cultivate a positive narrative, fostering community awareness of borrowers' responsibilities and uniting efforts towards sustaining Malaysia's higher education system.
As Norliza aptly put it, "The actions of every borrower today will shape the educational landscape for future generations.
"Loan repayments are a shared responsibility that transcends individual obligations. Every repayment is not just about settling debts, but a significant investment in the future education of the next generation."
By highlighting the interconnectedness of repayments and the sustainability of educational funds, PTPTN hopes to transform financial responsibility into a foundation for a sustainable and inclusive higher education system.
Together, Malaysians can pave the way for a brighter future, fostering a culture of accountability and collaboration within the community.
As PTPTN continues its commitment to supporting borrowers, it remains steadfast in its mission to enhance the accessibility and sustainability of higher education for all.