Mara Prihatin programme showcases the agency’s commitment to empowering communities in education and entrepreneurship with RM12.5 million in aid.
BAGAN DATUK: The Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) Prihatin programme reflects the agency’s ongoing commitment to empowering the community across various fields, including education and entrepreneurship, particularly in addressing the current challenges of global geopolitical uncertainty.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the programme brings together various education, welfare and community development initiatives under a single integrated platform, involving students, parents, teachers, local communities, government agencies, corporate sponsors and local entrepreneurs.
“This reflects inclusivity in MARA’s efforts to address issues faced by people who receive loans or assistance from MARA, particularly amid the uncertain geopolitical situation in West Asia,” he told a press conference after launching the national-level MARA Prihatin 2026 programme at Sultan Azlan Shah Maritime Polytechnic here today.
Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister, said MARA Prihatin 2026 involves strategic collaboration between Yayasan Pelajaran MARA (YPM), GiatMARA, Rural Capital Berhad (RCB), MARA educational institutions (IPMA), as well as various industry partners and corporate sectors, with a total allocation of RM12.5 million benefiting nearly 100,000 recipients.
A total of 2,946 students attended the event and received contributions amounting to RM560,000 from YPM.
Ahmad Zahid also presented mock cheques for the implementation of the Rumah Impian Electrical Maintenance Programme (SERI) and the Community TVET Training Programme by GiatMARA, with total funding of RM625,000.
In addition, takaful assistance for students, asnaf welfare aid and the Bagan Datuk Smart Tuition Programme by Rural Capital Berhad, totalling RM61,566, were also distributed.
Meanwhile, YPM also received mock cheques from sponsors and key contributors for 2026, amounting to RM10.53 million, as a symbol of continued commitment from the private sector in supporting the national education agenda.
MARA Prihatin 2026 is expected to have a significant impact on students and low-income families through financial assistance, access to education, guidance on study pathways and skills development opportunities.
The programme will continue at its next locations in Gerik, Perak, and Padang Besar, Perlis, as part of efforts to expand its reach to more communities nationwide.
