KUCHING: The Sarawak United People’s Party (SUPP) has voiced concern over the federal government’s recent decision to discontinue the PTPTN loan repayment exemption previously granted to first-class honours graduates from private higher education institutions (HEIs).
In a statement, its Batu Kitang Branch organising secretary, Gerald Goh, said the change has raised important questions about Malaysia’s commitment to educational fairness and the recognition of academic excellence.
“This decision deserves calm, rational, and objective discussion by all segments of society,” he said.
“Previously, any PTPTN borrower who graduated with first-class honours, regardless of family income, ethnicity, or religion, was eligible for exemption.
“The policy was meant to reward diligence and outstanding academic achievement,” he said.
Under the revised policy, only students from low and middle-income families who graduate with first-class honours from public universities will be eligible for the exemption.
Private university graduates, even with the same level of academic achievement, will no longer qualify.
Goh noted that this distinction risks creating inequality between public and private university students.
“Not all students in private universities come from wealthy families.
“Many parents make significant financial sacrifices, often under heavy economic pressure, to give their children access to higher education.
“For these families, the policy change may feel like a devaluation of their effort and merit,” he added.
He emphasised that policy design should prioritise fair competition and academic merit over institutional type as the key determinant of eligibility.
Goh urged the government to adopt a more inclusive and transparent approach to reviewing the exemption policy, guided by three key principles: academic achievement, financial need and educational equity.
He proposed that the government explore flexible relief mechanisms, such as partial exemptions or targeted repayment assistance, to ensure no group is systematically disadvantaged due to institutional differences.
“Education policy must balance fairness, academic freedom, and resource allocation.
“Implementation details should be data-driven and transparent, with clear evaluation criteria and public accountability,” he said.
He also called for greater acknowledgement of the contribution of private HEIs to Malaysia’s human capital development.
“By upholding the principle of equal opportunity and merit-based recognition, the government can strengthen confidence in its education system.
“Through rational dialogue and pragmatic refinement, Malaysia can move toward a fair and thriving education ecosystem that nurtures diverse, exceptional young talents for the nation’s future,” he said.
