Study loan system similar to MARA proposed

KOTA KINABALU: Kukusan assemblywoman Rina Jainal has proposed to the government to set up a study loan system similar to MARA.

Speaking during the debate session at the State Assembly sitting, Rina said the study loan system can be used by improving the existing Yayasan Sabah’s Biasiswa Kerajaan Negeri Sabah (BKNS).

“In the beginning, Yayasan Sabah has created a study loan system that gives students the opportunity to go to institutes of higher education. This system provides flexibility where the loan will be converted into a scholarship by paying a reasonable rate of 25 percent of the total study loan, especially for those who achieve academic excellence with a CGPA of 3.50 or above.

“However, the current situation shows that there is inconsistency in the implementation of this system. Students who have successfully achieved academic excellence with a CGPA of 3.50 or above still have to repay their loans at a rate of 100 percent.

“Compared to the MARA system, students who achieve a certain CGPA result obtain an exemption or release of part of the loan amount. This gives an injection of enthusiasm to students to study more diligently, as well as motivating themselves to try harder to achieve excellent results.

“I propose that the Sabah State Government pay attention to this issue. It is important that Yayasan Sabah realigns their system by reconsidering the terms and conditions in focusing on giving incentives to outstanding students,” she said.

Rina also urged Yayasan Sabah to credit BKNS payments to Sabah students to ensure that their learning and daily life runs smoothly. She said this following a number of complaints from BKNS recipients who are still waiting for credit even though they are already in the middle of the semester.