Malaysia

Autistic student thanks PM Anwar for free education policy, calls it 'a gift of hope'

Rajendrra Vharma, a student from the Special Education Integration Program (PPKI), said the policy demonstrated genuine care for children with special needs and affirmed that every child has a place in Malaysia’s future.

Updated 7 months ago · Published on 21 Jan 2026 3:05PM

Autistic student thanks PM Anwar for free education policy, calls it 'a gift of hope'
Rajendra also encouraged fellow students with disabilities not to give up – January 21, 2026

AN autistic student has publicly thanked Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for expanding free education for those from low-income families and persons with disabilities, describing the move as a powerful message of inclusion and hope.

Rajendrra Vharma, a student from the Special Education Integration Program (PPKI) at Sentul Utama, said the policy demonstrated genuine care for children with special needs and affirmed that every child has a place in Malaysia’s future.

“Your announcement of free education is more than a policy; it is a gift of hope.

“It shows that our future matters, and that every child, no matter their challenges, has a place in Malaysia’s journey forward,” Rajendrra, who is also an autistic artist recognised by the Malaysian Book of Records, said in a message expressing appreciation to the prime minister.

Yesterday, Anwar announced that students from low-income households and those with disabilities will be exempted from tuition fees at public colleges, universities and polytechnics, a move aimed at ensuring equal access to education regardless of background or ability.

According to Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to social justice and inclusive development, particularly for vulnerable groups who often face financial and structural barriers to higher education.

The policy covers tuition fees at public institutions and is part of broader education reforms under the Madani government framework, which prioritises equity, dignity and opportunity for all Malaysians.

In his message, Rajendra also encouraged fellow students with disabilities not to give up, while expressing gratitude to parents and teachers for their continued support and dedication.

He concluded by thanking Anwar for “believing with us”, a sentiment that has resonated widely as the government pushes forward with reforms aimed at narrowing inequality through education. – January 21, 2026

Related News

Malaysia / 3mth

Family asked to disembark plane: Comprehensive review of policies, procedures underway - AirAsia X

Education / 8mth

Activist calls for greater push to abolish PTPTN, ensure free education

Malaysia / 9mth

Still plenty to be done, but Sabah youth confident of Anwar’s leadership

Malaysia / 10mth

Prime Minister cancels Pahang visit due to back pain

Malaysia / 10mth

The most powerful messages need no words

Malaysia / 10mth

From Washington to Marang: Hadi, PMX and Trump take a (fake) spin together

Spotlight

Malaysia

Puteri Umno distances itself from viral Threads post

By Alfian Z.M. Tahir

Malaysia

MACC drops orange detention attire for court remand cases after PM’s call

World

Man jailed six years for keeping Indonesian woman as slave in Melbourne home

Malaysia

Emergency declared in Serian as haze reaches hazardous levels (UPDATED)

Malaysia

Haze in Serian enters emergency phase

Malaysia

Death sentence for deaf, mute man who killed family of four upheld

Malaysia

Retired army officer with Datuk title charged with alleged sexual assault of golf caddie

Heritage

Penang first state to recognise Hungry Ghost Festival, cemeteries as heritage

You may be interested

Malaysia

Anwar: ‘Government stable, GE16 timing up to me’

Malaysia

Nepal rejects foreign rescue teams, accepts aid after deadly disaster

Malaysia

IT officer loses RM20,000 in TikTok SPayLater scam

Malaysia

SMART Team to leave for Nepal today as search for 55 Malaysians continues

Malaysia

Police probe viral teen fight over social media photo in Kuala Pilah

Malaysia

Malaysians held abroad help crack cross-border drug networks - Home Minister

Malaysia

Ministries must spend according to set budgets - KSN

Malaysia

Felda Co-op members urge PM to intervene in RM400m share redemption crisis