KUCHING: The inclusivity of Yayasan Sarawak’s education loan policies, particularly for Independent Chinese Secondary School (ICSS) students with Unified Examination Certificate (UEC) qualifications, has been lauded.
Chung Hua Middle School No. 1 Alumni Association Kuching Chairman, Bong Lian Huan, urged politicians to refrain from politicising the issue, and instead focus on advocating for UEC recognition and wider access to education loans for all students.
“Yayasan Sarawak’s education loan policies are significantly more inclusive compared to the federal government’s National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN),” he said in a statement.
“Yayasan Sarawak accepts applications from holders of the Unified Examination Certificate (UEC), a policy that reflects the Sarawak Government’s respect for and support of multicultural education. In contrast, PTPTN excludes UEC holders, requiring applicants to hold an SPM or STPM certificate.”
He noted that Yayasan Sarawak allows UEC holders with a single-credit pass in Malay subject at the SPM level to apply, demonstrating its flexibility and alignment with the local education landscape.
Bong called on politicians to push for federal recognition of UEC and the extension of PTPTN loans to UEC holders, mirroring Yayasan Sarawak’s approach.
He highlighted several key advantages of Yayasan Sarawak’s education loan policies:
- Flexibility for ICSS students: accommodating UEC holders aligns with Sarawak’s multicultural society.
- Talent retention: prioritising local institutions like UTS and i-CATS nurtures local talent.
- Extensive coverage: loans are available for undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral studies.
- Reduced financial burden: provides crucial support to ICSS families.
- Promotes academic excellence: enables more UEC holders to pursue higher education.
Bong suggested simplifying application procedures and reducing eligibility thresholds for economically disadvantaged students.
He added that greater publicity and outreach efforts should be organised to inform UEC students and their families about the opportunities provided by Yayasan Sarawak.
