Tanjung Malim:A total of 634 students from Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI) and Politeknik Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin (PTSS) have received financial assistance amounting to RM317,000 through the Bantuan Lestari Siswa MADANI initiative from the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, PTPTN chief executive Ahmad Dasuki Abdul Majid stated that the assistance included RM285,500 for 571 students at UPSI and RM31,500 for 63 students at PTSS. All beneficiaries are PTPTN borrowers from low-income families.

Each student received a one-off payment of RM500, which was credited directly into their bank accounts. This initiative aims to support students in managing financial challenges and to provide additional aid throughout their studies at higher education institutions.

The aid underscores PTPTN's commitment, as part of the Ministry of Higher Education, to ensuring the welfare of students in need. This support is intended to help them pursue their studies with greater peace of mind.

Ahmad Dasuki expressed his hope that the assistance will be used effectively to meet the students' needs during their studies and motivate them to focus on their education and aspirations confidently.

The initiative will continue to be strengthened to help students overcome challenges and develop into knowledgeable and competitive individuals. Education is seen as a crucial foundation for building a better future for individuals and society.

Ahmad Dasuki handed over the assistance to UPSI students during a ceremony at Dewan Sultan Idris Training College, UPSI, with several officials present, including UPSI deputy vice-chancellor Prof Dr Norkhalid Salimin. Meanwhile, PTPTN chief financial officer Azhar Ahmad presented the aid to PTSS students in Arau, Perlis, with PTSS director Khairul Anuar Ishak in attendance.