KUALA LUMPUR: Students who missed out on the ‘Bantuan Kewangan Khas’ (BKK) initiative may submit their applications when it reopens in September, says Education, Innovation and Talent Development Deputy Minister, Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee.
He estimated around 15,000 new students will apply during the next phase, which mainly involves those registering at higher learning institutions that month.
“For those who dropped out or have not had time to apply, they can submit their applications when it reopens in September.
“I am grateful that this programme was successfully launched at exactly 1:00 pm today. This means that what the Sarawak Government promised has been fulfilled.
“Although there was a slight delay, the promise was still kept,” he told Sarawak Public Communications Unit (UKAS) after the launch of the BKK disbursement here on Wednesday.
The initiative, which opened for registration on May 1, 2025, was initially scheduled for disbursement at the end of June following verification processes.
However, the timeline was pushed back slightly due to the high volume of applications and the need for careful screening.
Dr Annuar explained that officials had to review over 42,000 applications – more than initially anticipated.
“In the past two to three weeks, there have been students asking when the money will be disbursed.
“I apologise to them because the number of applications is very large and this is the first time we have implemented such a verification process,” he added.
He asserted that the financial aid, amounting to RM100 a month, reflects the Sarawak Government’s ongoing concern for students and its intention to help them focus fully on their education.
The BKK is part of the state government’s broader commitment under Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg to prioritise education and human capital development.
