MOHE to review PTPTN loan repayment exemption for first-class IPTS graduates from B40 and M40 households, citing need for fair evaluation mechanism.
KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Higher Education will review the implementation of PTPTN loan repayment exemption for first-class bachelor’s degree graduates from B40 and M40 households at private higher education institutions.
Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir said the move is necessary because academic evaluation systems at IPTS are not standardised like those at public universities.
“This does not mean the government is rejecting the possibility, but we must ensure that the mechanism used for IPTS is fair, accurate, and takes into account the differences in evaluation systems among institutions,” he said when winding up the debate on the 2026 Supply Bill for MOHE at the Dewan Rakyat.
Zambry said the loan repayment exemption policy currently applies only to first-class graduates from B40 and M40 households at public universities.
Meanwhile, he said the government is realigning the entire Technical and Vocational Education and Training ecosystem.
This includes integrating new technologies and ensuring programmes offered by higher education institutions align with industry demands.
Among key reforms is the introduction of embedded AI concept, integrating artificial intelligence elements into all TVET curricula at polytechnics, community colleges, and related institutions.
The initiative is being strengthened through collaborations with global industry players including Geely and BYD, which are investing heavily in Malaysia’s automotive, electrical, and high-tech sectors.
“These collaborations include technology transfer, trainer development, long-term industrial training, joint curriculum development, and the adoption of a two-year industry and two-year university model to enhance graduate employability,” he said.
Additionally, the ministry will introduce a new General Studies subject at universities focusing on character building, worldview development, and ethical understanding.
Zambry said the new subject would serve as a core element in producing graduates who are not only highly skilled but also possess strong identity, intellect, and moral grounding.
“This new approach will link character formation from preschool and school levels, as outlined by the Ministry of Education, with the continued development of intellect and character at the university level,” he said. – Bernama
