The increase in the Living Allowance (ESH) for Public Service Department (PSD) scholars has not only been well received by students and parents but also received praise from all sectors of society.

In SELANGOR, state Islamic Religious Affairs, Consumer Affairs and Halal Industry Committee chairman Mohd Zawawi Ahmad Mughni described the announcement as a positive development that could help students deal with the cost of living, especially the purchase of learning-related items.

He said although it is just a RM100 increase, it would still have great implications for students.

Meanwhile, in TERENGGANU, state Welfare, Women's Development, Family and National Unity Committee chairman Hanafiah Mat welcomed the increase and said that, as the body that looks after the welfare of the people in the state, he was very grateful for the prime minister’s decision.

“However, it would be better if the rate of increase was RM300, for example, as everything is now expensive... not only food but house rent, electricity bills are all high.

“And one more thing, if possible after this, it should be announced that the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) loan also need not be paid because that was the promise before, right?” he said.

In PERAK, Simpang Pulai state assemblyman Wong Chai Yi said the announcement of the increase in the allowance rate was a good initiative by the Unity Government to deal with the rising cost of living.

“This (increase in living allowance) is a very important investment for the country’s human resources. I also hope our youngsters who enjoy this benefit can serve and contribute to the society and country in the future,” she said when contacted today.

In JOHOR, Universiti Malaya Young Leaders Society president Lim San Shien said the incentive could inject students with the spirit to fulfil the nation’s hopes and aspirations, thus making the people educated and civilised.

The Leadership Student icon said that, at the same time, the students can also improve access to better quality education and increase knowledge by buying reference books, scientific materials and other books as added value.

“I suggest that students take advantage of the ESH for the right purpose like learning, purchasing scientific materials, daily expenses as well using it for start-up businesses for a positive and holistic development,” he told Bernama when contacted today.

Meanwhile, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn (UTHM) Student Representative Council Academic and International Committee member Angelica Tijan Musi, when contacted, expressed her gratitude to the government for listening to the complaints of PSD-sponsored students.

“We know that the cost of living is rising. I am confident that the increase in ESH will help the students to focus more on their studies and be more motivated to achieve the best performance,” she said.

UTHM Student Representative Council Welfare and Wellbeing Committee head Muhammad Aiman Hanif Muhammad Zakaria thanked the prime minister for understanding the various constraints faced by students due to financial problems.

Source: BERNAMA News Agency