KOTA KINABALU: Tuaran Member of Parliament, Datuk Seri Panglima Madius Tangau, has proposed that the Ministry of Higher Education (KPT) introduce a free tuition assistance initiative specifically for Sabah’s children pursuing studies through the UPU system at public higher education institutions in Sabah.
This proposal was raised through a written question during the recent Dewan Rakyat session in Kuala Lumpur.
“Sabah continues to face challenges such as development gaps, high poverty rates, and a shortage of local professionals in various strategic sectors, so the government must take specific steps for the children of Sabah,” he stated.
In response to the question, KPT informed that the government is committed to ensuring that access to higher education is available to all eligible citizens, regardless of their socioeconomic background or location.
The Ministry also clarified that the approach to providing higher education assistance is now based on socioeconomic needs and target groups to ensure that aid is distributed fairly, inclusively, and sustainably.
“As an initial step, through the 2026 Budget, the government has introduced a non-repayable education financing initiative aimed at over 10,000 students from extremely poor families through the eKasih PTPTN Scholarship (Baek PTPTN).
“Efforts to strengthen access to higher education will continue in line with the aspirations of the Malaysian Higher Education Plan (RPTM) 2026-2035,” KPT added.
Meanwhile, Madius, who is also the State Assemblyman for N.14 Tamparuli, welcomed the Ministry’s explanation but hopes that KPT will consider the need for free education specifically for Sabah’s children.
“Of the 10 poorest districts in Malaysia, eight are located in Sabah. This fact should serve as a strong basis for the government to prioritize Sabah’s children in terms of access to higher education.”
