Ahead of Budget 2027, higher education students call for expanded assistance to manage rising living expenses

Ahead of the government's Budget 2027 presentation, higher education students in Malaysia are urging for expanded financial assistance to manage increasing living expenses. Current aid programs such as Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) have been praised, but students contend they are inadequate to cover everyday costs like food, transportation, accommodation, and studies.

Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Shah Alam student representative Muhammad Ammar Romli, 22, noted that while food assistance like Menu Siswa Rahmah significantly eases daily expenses, there is still ample room for improvement. He urged the government to provide more targeted aid or subsidies to alleviate the financial burden after graduation.

Universiti Selangor (UNISEL) student Abhinaayasri Srivenkatarao echoed similar sentiments, stating that while the Madani Government's initiatives have been beneficial, the soaring cost of living remains a challenge. PTPTN loans, though helpful, are insufficient for some students to cover education and living expenses. Parents like Zareah Kandam, 49, highlighted the significant financial pressure on families with multiple children studying in higher education.

She emphasized that while existing schemes like education loans, scholarships, financial assistance, and subsidies have helped, some families still require additional support due to rising living costs. Zareah advocated for more comprehensive measures in Budget 2027, including financial assistance for new students, hostel fee subsidies, and higher living allowances.

Transportation assistance for students studying far from home was also deemed crucial. Simplifying the application process for aid, considering household income, and the number of children pursuing higher education were also suggested improvements. Student welfare has gained considerable attention on social media platforms, with users demanding greater government attention to students' financial struggles. The Budget 2027 is set to be presented in Parliament on October 9.