Govt considers allowance for Form Six students

In Malaysia, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced that Form Six students will receive an allowance starting from 2027. The allocation will be included in the 2027 Budget. This decision was made following a dialogue with the students, who raised the issue during the dialogue. Currently, allowances are provided from Year One to Form Five and for university students, but Form Six students, who are pre-university, do not receive any.

Anwar stated that the exact amount of the allowance has not been determined and will depend on the government's financial situation. The announcement comes after a resolution was passed by Form Six students at the Kongres Prauniversiti Madani, where they discussed various issues affecting them. Education Minister Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek mentioned that the allowance was one of the 12 resolutions accepted.

The congress brought together students from across the country to debate motions and express their views on matters concerning them. Fadhlina emphasized the importance of giving young people the space to disagree and question ideas, as part of fostering a vibrant democracy. She also announced an additional RM100 book voucher for each congress delegate and sponsored 100 copies of Salina for Arts stream students.

Anwar highlighted that education remains the largest share of the Madani government's budget, although he acknowledged that improvements can still be made. He urged students to take their studies seriously, develop discipline, critical thinking, and respect for others, while also ensuring that academic results do not compromise character and ethics.

Anwar called for equal opportunities for students from various backgrounds to pursue their education, as Malaysia expands in areas such as artificial intelligence, information technology, semiconductors, education, and the public service.