Kuala Lumpur:Budget 2027 has been characterized as a 'bold budget,' highlighting Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's focus on human development and institutional strengthening, with a significant emphasis on education as a catalyst for national transformation.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) vice-chancellor Professor Dr. Ahmad Martadha Mohamed emphasized that the budget's strength lies not only in the financial allocation but also in the government's ability to set development priorities that benefit both current and future generations.
The budget has allocated nearly RM69 billion to the Education Ministry, marking an increase from RM66.2 billion. In addition, funding for school repairs and maintenance has doubled to RM2 billion. Nearly RM1.3 billion is designated to upgrade 682 dilapidated schools, especially in Sabah and Sarawak, while the Early Schooling Aid has been increased from RM150 to RM200 per pupil, impacting 5.3 million students.
The RM19.1 billion allocation to the Higher Education Ministry, including RM800 million for upgrading university facilities, encourages universities to diversify their funding through various means such as endowments, alumni contributions, and industry partnerships.
Furthermore, measures to alleviate the financial burden on low-income PTPTN borrowers, through deferred or reduced repayments and student welfare assistance, highlight the government's commitment to education access and student welfare.
An RM8 billion allocation for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and RM3 billion from the Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp) to provide three million training opportunities underscores the national priority on talent development. This reflects a shift in perspective, emphasizing the need for universities to develop talent rather than just producing graduates.
A new legal framework for higher education is deemed essential to enhance university autonomy, academic freedom, and student rights. Additionally, participation in the MADANI Adopted Community programme by universities and TVET institutions aims to extend the benefits of education to broader communities.