Ministry studying approach to help students return to vote

The Higher Education Ministry (MOHE) will identify a suitable approach to facilitate students and staff of higher learning institutions (IPT) returning to their respective hometowns to vote in the six-state elections on Aug 12.

MOHE deputy minister Mohammad Yusof Apdal said his ministry will hold discussions on the matter to decide whether to provide special leave in order for them to fulfil their responsibility as voters.

“We will look at the needs, especially for the staff and students,” he said.

He was speaking at a press conference after closing the International Innovation and Invention Competition Through Exhibition (iCompEx 2023) at the Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Polytechnic (Polimas) in Jitra, Kedah, today.

Meanwhile, Yusof said although freedom has been given to university students to participate in politics, they must be responsible and ensure it does not interfere with their studies.

He also reminded students to avoid politicising religious and racial issues.

On the event, he said the 11th edition of iCompEx, which took place from July 5 to 6, was the first to be held at an international level, with participation from five foreign countries - China, Korea, Indonesia, Thailand, and Bangladesh.

- Bernama