Perlis: A total of 2,000 newborns among the 'asnaf' (zakat recipients) group in Perlis received the benefits of the Permata Kasih (PEKA) National Education Savings Scheme (SSPN Savings) Programme through a collaboration between the Perlis Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPs) and the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, PTPTN chief executive Ahmad Dasuki Abdul Majid stated that contributions amounting to RM400,000 were provided by MAIPs through PTPTN. These contributions were delivered in the form of SSPN Prime Savings accounts for newly born asnaf children starting April 1, 2025, under the programme.

"Each eligible asnaf child will receive a contribution of RM200 in the form of SSPN Prime Savings accounts as the start of their education savings," Ahmad Dasuki noted in a statement released today. This announcement coincided with the launch of the PEKA Simpan SSPN for the newborns, which was officiated by the Raja of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Jamalullail.

The event was also attended by the Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, lending further significance to the occasion.

Ahmad Dasuki further emphasized that PTPTN remains committed to promoting savings as a primary agenda to lessen reliance on education loans. The corporation aims to transform the mindset of the community from "borrowing" to "saving."

"Strategic collaboration with government agencies and corporate companies is very welcome to help the asnaf group prioritise higher education to change the future of their families," he stated.