Accra:According to BERNAMA News Agency, the allocation for the Higher Education Ministry under Budget 2027 underscores the government's ongoing commitment to the welfare and comfort of students at higher education institutions. The ministry has been allocated RM19.1 billion, which marks an increase of RM500 million from the previous year.

Of the total allocation, RM800 million is designated specifically for upgrading infrastructure at public universities. This increase of 2.7 percent compared to the previous year will be directed towards repairs and upgrades of faculty buildings and student accommodations nationwide.

The budget distribution includes RM15.13 billion for operating expenditure and RM3.96 billion for development expenditure. This funding aims to strengthen higher education infrastructure, improve educational quality, enhance research and innovation, and safeguard student welfare.

Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abd Kadir highlighted the focus on repairing dilapidated infrastructure at public institutions, which includes lecture halls, student housing, and learning equipment.

Additionally, Zambry mentioned the proposed One Higher Education Act (OHEA), intended to replace the existing Universities and University Colleges Act 1971. The new legislation aims to harmonize provisions across universities and eliminate restrictions faced by students, promoting greater freedom in line with aspirations for higher education reform. The ministry is currently reviewing the proposed legislation before its implementation.