1.3 – University anti-poverty programmes

1.3.4 – Bottom Financial Quintile Student Support

Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) is deeply committed to supporting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1: No Poverty. Understanding that financial difficulties can hinder academic success, UKM has established several programs to assist low-income students. These initiatives are designed to ensure that all students, regardless of their financial background, have access to the essential resources needed to excel in both their studies and personal lives.

1. Jejak Anak Watan Program

In Malaysia, low-income households are categorized under the B40 group, representing the bottom 40% of income earners. UKM has implemented several programs specifically designed to provide financial aid to B40 students in Malaysia, including the “Program Jejak Anak Watan,” which is an annually held, on-programmed initiative. 

The Student Affairs Center (HEP-UKM) together with the University Islamic Center have supported 23 Anak Watan who will be entering UKM on 28 September 2024. Jejak Anak Watan Program was started from 19 until 24 September 2024 for selected students from several states. Through the Jejak Anak Watan program, UKM demonstrates its concern for the well-being of its students who have successfully received admission offers this year by providing Bakul Rahmah (charity aid basket) worth RM200 and waive RM1,200 for entrance fees. The Jejak Anak Watan program has successfully strengthened awareness and commitment among the university community towards the SDG1 (Zero-Poverty) agenda. The financial contributions and Bakul Rahmah (charity aid basket) not only demonstrate UKM’s efforts to transform their lives through educational opportunities, but also serve as evidence that UKM remains relevant as a leading institution in supporting sustainable development in line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The UKM delegation, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Gs. Ts. Dr. Mohd Ekhwan Toriman, visited and extended support to Muhammad Amir Asyraf Othman, a prospective Bachelor of Liberal Studies student at the Centre for Liberal Studies and Muhammad Zharfan Kamarulzaman, a prospective Bachelor of Political Science student at the Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities.

Muhammad Amir Asyraf Othman comes from a B10 household, with both of his parents no longer employed, while Muhammad Zharfan Kamarulzaman is a student with disabilities, being blind in his right eye and severely visually impaired in his left eye.

The delegation was also joined by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Student Affairs and Alumni, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Suzeren Md Jamil; Director of HEP-UKM, Prof. Ts. Dr. Norinsan Kamil Othman; Dean of Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Prof. Dr. Kadaruddin Aiyub; Director of the Islamic Centre, Dr. Wan Haslan Khairuddin; Deputy Director of HEP-UKM, Ts. Dr. Ahmad Firdhaus Arham and Dr. Nurwina Akmal Anuar; as well as Deputy Director of the Islamic Centre, Dr. Abu Dardaa Mohamad.

2. Siswa Sulung 3.0 Program

UKM together with the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) provide additional support to our students. This project highlights UKM’s role in the government’s efforts to eradicate poverty. UKM has awarded nearly 101 scholarships to deserving students, ensuring that those from B40 backgrounds receive the financial support needed to complete their studies, totalling RM212,100.00, reflecting UKM’s commitment to poverty eradication. The Siswa Sulung 3.0 Program at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) aims to strengthen welfare support and academic development for students, particularly those from underprivileged backgrounds.

This initiative helps ease the financial burden of B40 students who are the first in their families to pursue a bachelor’s degree at a public university. Through the program, selected students are exempted from tuition fees and receive financial aid, including sponsored accommodation, allowing them to focus entirely on their studies without financial worries. Additionally, the program acts as a catalyst for holistic student development, aligning with the nation’s aspirations to produce high-quality graduates.

STUDENT FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

UKM provides various initiatives to assist students through financial and learning support programmes. Main financial assistance is offered by the UKM Islamic Centre and the Centre for Student Affairs, while other forms of financial aid include the Pewaris Watan Assistance Scheme, Pacific Speech Therapy and Learning Centre Scholarship, and Optometry & Occupational Therapy Scholarship. Additionally, learning aid support is extended by the Faculty of Science and Technology, School of Liberal Studies, and the UKM Alumni Office to enhance students’ academic success and well-being.

Table shows initiatives to assist student in UKM

No.	Type of Assistance	Contributor
1.	Main Financial Assistance	i. UKM Islamic Centre
		ii. Centre for Students Affair
2.	Others Financial Assistance	i. Pewaris Watan Assistance Scheme
		ii. Pacific Speech Therapy and Learning Centre Scholarship
		iii. Scholarship for Optometry & Occupational Therapy Program
3.	Learning Aid Support Initiatives	i. Faculty of Science and Technology
		ii. School of Liberal Studies
		iii. UKM Alumni Office

1. Main Financial Assistance – UKM Islamic Centre and Centre for Student Affairs (HEP)

The two main bodies that provide assistance to students at UKM are the UKM Islamic Centre, which offers zakat (financial aid) assistance and the Centre for Student Affairs (HEP)

i. UKM Islamic Centre – Zakat

In 2024, Zakat UKM disbursed a total of RM 6.54 million in financial assistance to 8,558 students in need. This initiative aimed to ease the financial burden of students from various socioeconomic backgrounds through several categories of aid distribution.A total of RM 1,659,794.50 was allocated to Fakir (students in extreme poverty), while RM 2,374,887.00 supported Miskin (students from low-income families). Assistance under the Fi Sabilillah category amounted to RM 2,446,488.81, directed toward charitable and educational causes that benefit the student community. In addition, RM 16,200.00 was distributed to Mualaf (new converts) to support their spiritual and academic needs, and RM 42,879.92 was provided under the Ibnu Sabil category for students or travellers in need.

ii. Centre for Student Affairs (HEP)

In 2024, the Centre for Student Affairs (HEP-UKM), in collaboration with various agencies, provided a total of RM 2,596,119.00 in general educational aid to support UKM students from diverse backgrounds. This comprehensive initiative reflects UKM’s strong commitment to promoting equitable access to education and reducing the financial challenges faced by its student community.

Among the key programs under this initiative, the MAIWP Rental Assistance (Bantuan Sewaan Kediaman MAIWP) allocated RM 1,472,400 to support 1,227 students with housing expenses. The MAIWP “Jom Balik Raya” Assistance Program provided RM 158,400  to 1,120 students to help them return home for festive celebrations. Additionally, the MAIWP “Gerobok Rezeki” Program contributed RM 800,000), benefiting 800 students through essential food and daily supply support.Further assistance included the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Program by Prokhas 2024, which provided RM 5,000 to 25 students, and the Yayasan Pelajaran MARA (SDEP) initiative by Ekuiti Nasional Berhad, offering RM 32,500 to 13 students. Moreover, the Tuition Fee Sponsorship by YAPEIM amounted to RM 110,000, benefitting 110 students, while the Lotte Foundation Scholarship was awarded to 4 deserving students.

2. Financial Assistance from others

i. Pewaris Watan Assistance Scheme

A donation handover ceremony was held to distribute contributions to the students of Kolej Tun Dr. Ismail and to provide research funding to the Faculty of Medicine at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM). The ceremony involved the distribution of zakat donations, which were managed by Kolej Tun Dr. Ismail. The assistance provided to students included learning aids such as stethoscopes and nursing uniforms, aimed at alleviating the financial burden, particularly for those from the B40 group, in financing their education. 40 students benefited from this initiative, receiving a total of RM 100,000.00. Additionally, the research fund contribution to the Faculty of Medicine is expected to enhance the quality of research, serving as a catalyst for researchers to pursue urgent studies, expand knowledge, and improve treatment effectiveness. This support is crucial in helping students and researchers alike, fostering a more conducive environment for academic and professional growth.

ii. Pacific Speech Therapy and Learning Centre Scholarship

On 5th April 2024. three students from the Occupational Therapy Program, Faculty of Health Sciences (FSK), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), have been awarded a scholarship worth RM42,000 per year for five years, amounting to a total sponsorship of RM154,000.00 from Pacific Speech Therapy and Learning Centre Sdn. Bhd.

This scholarship aims to provide financial support to students, particularly those from the B40 group and financially disadvantaged backgrounds, helping to ease the burden of educational costs. Additionally, it guarantees job opportunities for recipients upon graduation, ensuring a smoother transition into the workforce. The collaboration between UKM and Pacific Speech Therapy and Learning Centre also strengthens ties between academia and the industry, enhancing the quality of education and training in occupational therapy.Beyond financial assistance, the scholarship program offers graduates immediate employment opportunities, allowing them to apply their knowledge and skills in the field. This partnership also fosters research collaboration and facilitates the exchange of clinical expertise between FSK and Pacific Speech Therapy and Learning Centre, ultimately benefiting both students and the broader occupational therapy industry.

iii. Scholarship for Optometry & Occupational Therapy Program

On July 29, 2024, the Faculty of Health Sciences (FSK), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), held a Scholarship Awarding Ceremony in collaboration with two industry partners. This event marked a significant milestone in fostering strong partnerships between academia and industry, ensuring students receive the necessary financial assistance to pursue their education. The primary objectives of this program were to provide financial support to students, particularly those from the B40 group and financially disadvantaged backgrounds, helping to alleviate the burden of educational costs. Additionally, the program aimed to inspire and motivate students to excel academically while strengthening the relationship between the university and industry for mutual growth and collaboration.

Two industry partners, Focus Point Vision Care Group Sdn. Bhd. and Hatching Group PJ Sdn. Bhd., contributed significantly to this initiative by sponsoring selected students. Focus Point Vision Care Group Sdn. Bhd. provided financial aid to five final-year students from the Optometry and Vision Science Program, with a total sponsorship amount of RM132,000. This sponsorship is part of the company’s ongoing commitment, where RM500,000 is allocated annually until 2026 to support eligible students from the B40 and M40 categories. Scholarship recipients from this program will also be guaranteed employment with Focus Point Vision Care Group Sdn. Bhd. upon graduation, in accordance with their contractual agreements. Meanwhile, Hatching Group PJ Sdn. Bhd. sponsored two final-year students from the Occupational Therapy Program, providing financial aid totaling RM20,000. This brings the overall sponsorship amount awarded during the ceremony to RM152,000.

3. Learning Aid Support Initiatives

UKM remains committed to supporting students in need. One of the initiatives introduced to help students complete their studies is the provision of laptops to underprivileged students. This effort has been carried out by various parties, reflecting a strong spirit of collaboration and care in ensuring that financial hardship does not hinder students’ access to digital learning and academic success.

Laptop Donation Program 

i.  Faculty of Science and Technology

On 27 November 2024, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), through the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST), successfully organized the Laptop Donation Ceremony, valued at RM50,000. This initiative was made possible through a strategic collaboration between Sekatarakyat (Koperasi Bank Rakyat), Lembaga Zakat Malaysia, and Taman Botani Bangi (TBB). Led by Prof. Dr. Noraini Talip, Head of TBB, the program was also held in conjunction with the 50th anniversary celebration of Sekatarakyat as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts.

As an institution committed to producing competitive graduates who are mindful of future challenges, Taman Botani Bangi plays a pivotal role in supporting students in need. This initiative provided 20 laptops, worth a total of RM50,000, to 20 students, ensuring they have the necessary resources to excel academically.

The collaborative effort between Taman Botani Bangi, the Faculty of Science and Technology, and Sekatarakyat has significantly benefited underprivileged students. This assistance not only eases their financial burden but also serves as motivation for them to continue striving for a better future. The initiative reflects the ongoing commitment of UKM and its partners in fostering educational opportunities and supporting students in need.

ii. School Of Liberal Studies (CITRA-UKM)

Muslim Care, a non-governmental organization (NGO), has agreed to donate three laptop units to three Bachelor of Science Citra students from the B40 category. The Laptop Distribution Program was held on May 9, 2024, at the CITRA-UKM Meeting Room. This initiative aims to support students by providing them with essential tools to facilitate their learning process. The distribution of these three laptops to the selected students underscores the significance of ensuring that financial limitations do not hinder academic success.The contribution from Muslim Care highlights the importance of collaboration between universities and organizations in addressing student needs and welfare. Such partnerships play a crucial role in fostering academic excellence by ensuring that students have access to the necessary resources for their education.

iii. UKM Alumni Centre

The UKM Alumni Relations Centre (ALUMNI-UKM) held a Laptop Donation Ceremony for five UKM students — Nur Hayati Binti Mey (Faculty of Islamic Studies), Kausar Binti Ahmad Rozuki @ Ahmad Zukhi (Faculty of Islamic Studies), Nur-Ain Atasyah Binti Abdul Latiff (Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities), Nor Zaidah Binti Habidin (Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities) and Muhammad Haikal Danny Bin Roslan (Faculty of Science and Technology). The laptops were contributed by UKM-GSB alumni.

The handover ceremony was officiated by Prof. Ts. Dr. Norinsan Kamil Othman from the Centre for Student Affairs (HEP-UKM), representing Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Suzeren Md Jamil, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student and Alumni Affairs) of UKM. Also present were Dr. Roslan Jaafar, Director of ALUMNI-UKM; Dr. Muhammad Sofwan Mahmud, Deputy Director (Marketing and Fundraising), and Dr. Hilwa Abdullah @ Mohd. Nor, Deputy Director (Activities and Networking) of ALUMNI-UKM. This contribution aims to support the recipients in their academic journey and facilitate their learning experience at UKM.

On 21 November 2024, The Laptop Donation Ceremony to students is an initiative by Yayasan Taqwa, in collaboration with the Majlis Agama Islam Wilayah Persekutuan (MAIWP) and UKM, aimed at providing underprivileged students with access to digital learning. This program seeks to bridge the digital divide, ensuring that these students remain competitive in the modern educational landscape. The primary objectives of this initiative are to facilitate digital learning for underprivileged students, reduce the digital divide, and support their academic success through laptop donations. A total of 35 laptops, valued at RM 118,125, have been distributed to 35 underprivileged students at UKM. This program has successfully benefited underprivileged students by providing them with laptop facilities to support their digital learning. By bridging the digital divide, it also enhances academic performance and offers more equitable educational opportunities. It is hoped that this contribution will be fully utilized by the students and that such collaborative efforts can continue in the future.

UKM demonstrates an unwavering commitment to uplifting students from the bottom financial quintile through a comprehensive network of financial aid, welfare and empowerment initiatives. Flagship programs such as Jejak Anak Watan and Siswa Sulung 3.0 provide targeted financial assistance, entrance fee waivers, and scholarships to ensure equitable access to higher education for B40 students. In 2024 alone, UKM disbursed over RM6.54 million in zakat aid through the UKM Zakat Centre, benefiting 8,558 students, alongside RM2.59 million in student welfare support from the Centre for Student Affairs (HEP). These efforts were further strengthened by collaborations with corporate and industry partners through scholarships, laptop donation programs and learning aid initiatives that help bridge digital and socio-economic gaps. Collectively, these initiatives alleviate financial pressures, empower students to focus on their academic success, and reflect UKM’s leadership in advancing social equity and sustainable development in line with SDG 1: No Poverty.