Ministry won’t interfere in PTPTN’s decision on student loans, says Zambry

 

PTPTN CEO Ahmad Dasuki Abdul Majid is reported to have said the corporation is considering stopping funding for university courses with student repayment rates below 30%.

PETALING JAYA: 

The higher education ministry will not interfere with the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) and its decision regarding student loans, says its minister, Zambry Abdul Kadir.

Zambry said all decisions made by PTPTN are based on discussions and recommendations made during the corporation’s internal meetings, Berita Harian reported.

“PTPTN will issue an official statement. They have a dedicated committee to address this issue,” he was quoted as saying.

“Let them release a statement based on their meetings and recommendations.”

Zambry’s comments come after PTPTN CEO Ahmad Dasuki Abdul Majid reportedly said the corporation is considering stopping funding for university courses with student repayment rates below 30%.

Dasuki said this proposal was part of a collaboration with local universities to encourage better repayment behaviour among borrowers.

Zambry said any measure taken by PTPTN would have been thoroughly assessed, fair, and considerate of students’ circumstances, rather than being punitive.

He also said PTPTN has received various suggestions, including proposals for restrictions on overseas travel for loan defaulters.

“We will consider any proposals that could be beneficial, but we do not want PTPTN to be seen as a harsh or uncaring institution, making decisions without fully understanding the circumstances of the borrowers,” he said. - FMT