GEORGE TOWN: The National Higher Education Fund Corporation’s (PTPTN) move to carry out scheduled salary deductions on borrowers with monthly incomes of RM2,000 and above has drawn a mixed reaction.
Many borrowers were dissatisfied with the loan repayment threshold, saying that it would be an added burden for them in future.
The minimum monthly deduction of RM40 will be implemented from January.
Muhd Zuhairy Abdul Jabar, 20, said it would be burdensome.
“Once we complete our studies, we will get a job.
“If our salaries are deducted, we will be left with very little to spend daily,” he said.
Universiti Teknologi MARA student Muhammad Uzir Rashidin Ahmad Sharani, 20, said borrowers would face financial constraints due to the rising cost of living.
“The cost of transport, food, accommodation...all that must be taken into consideration.
“With a RM2,000 starting pay and the scheduled salary deduction, it will be difficult for us to support ourselves.”
Puteri Husna Megat Hariri, 23, said she hoped that the government would revise the treshold to RM4,000.
“If the PTPTN mandatory deduction is set at a salary threshold of RM4,000 a month, it will be easier for us to repay,” she said.
Universiti Sains Malaysia student Lee Chan Siang, 23, said: “Give borrowers a choice. If they can afford it, they can pay more, but if they can’t (afford), then they pay less,” he said.
Education Minister, Dr Maszlee Malik said Cabinet had decided that two per cent deductions, or RM40, be made as soon as borrowers’ salaries had reached RM2,000.