KOTA SAMARAHAN: Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS) has assured prospective students and their families that financial difficulties will not prevent eligible students from beginning their university journey, stressing that support systems are in place to assist those in need.
The university said concerns surrounding financial pressures during registration should be addressed responsibly, particularly as many students from rural areas, B40 households and first-generation university families prepare to enrol for the new academic session.
UNIMAS Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Ahmad Hata Rasit said it would be misleading to create the perception that students could be denied registration solely because they were unable to make payments on the day.
“When a child of the nation earns a place at university, financial difficulty must be met with guidance, support and reasonable pathways forward. Registration day should mark the beginning of confidence, not fear,” he said in a press statement today.
Ahmad Hata explained that the university has established a wide range of welfare and financial assistance initiatives through its Student Affairs and Alumni division to support students throughout their studies.
These include assistance for tuition fees and living expenses, Food@Campus programmes, medical equipment aid, emergency financial assistance, bereavement support, counselling services, accommodation assistance, ICT support and the SULUNG Student Development Programme.
He said additional support is also provided through the university’s Endowment and Waqf Division, which collaborates with various organisations to help ease students’ financial burdens.
Among the initiatives available are the Kasih Insani Programme, food assistance with Tabung Baitulmal Sarawak, food voucher programmes in partnership with Maybank Islamic Berhad, laptop assistance schemes, endowment scholarships supported by Bank Rakyat and Maybank Islamic, as well as paid community projects through UNIMASfm and Affin Bank.
Students may also benefit from on-campus employment opportunities through the university’s Job on Campus initiative, enabling them to earn income while pursuing their studies.
“Students and families who are often placed at the centre of public concern should not be underestimated. Many carry life experiences shaped by resilience, wisdom and courage. What they need is accurate information, clear channels and dignified treatment,” he added.
Ahmad Hata said the university’s priority is to ensure information on available assistance reaches students and families earlier, clearly and effectively, so they can make informed decisions and access support when needed.
