BANGI: Concerned over the rising costs of living and inflation affecting Majlis Amanah Rakyat (Mara) sponsored students in the country and abroad, the government today announced an increase in living allowances (ESH) for the scholars.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob said Mara sponsored students who are pursuing their studies abroad will receive an increase in their ESG allowance of between RM1,380 and RM7,600 a month.
The increase in the monthly ESH allowance, he said, is applicable for students pursuing bachelor degrees, professional doctorates and courses at higher education institutions abroad.
He also announced increases in ESH allowances of between RM650 and RM950 monthly for Mara sponsored students pursuing diplomas, philosophy doctorates and professional courses at higher education institutions in the country.
The increase in ESH allowances which is expected to benefit 62,998 Mara sponsored students will take effect starting this month.
"The increase in ESH allowances is proof that the government and Mara are serious about the Bumiputera empowerment agenda, especially students who are the backbone of national development," he said in his speech at the Keluarga Malaysia's Aspiration of Excellence ceremony at the German-Malaysian Institute here today.