KUALA LUMPUR – Youth-led party Muda has managed to raise more than RM51,000 to help students affected by yesterday’s decision by the Higher Education Ministry to postpone face-to-face registration and classes at higher education institutions.
“The statement made by the Ministry of Higher Education did not give complete information and was done at the last minute, causing many students to be affected and require immediate assistance,” Muda said in a statement today.
Minister Datuk Noraini Ahmad today said the move was made after consulting the National Security Council and the Ministry of Health.
Yesterday, Muda initiated a crowdfunding initiative called #TolongBantuMahasiswa at 8.35pm, which raised RM51,145.92 as of 11.52pm.
Muda representative Luqman Long told The Vibes today that the funds will be distributed to students on a case-by-case basis.
“Many students wanted financial assistance to help them buy bus tickets to return home or get a place to stay for the night.
“In some emergency cases, where students are asked to leave their universities, we channelled them to individuals who are willing to open up their homes and offer assistance.”
He said Muda is exercising caution with the funds and aims to be transparent with how the funds are disbursed.
“The funds are still being distributed and all transactions are being monitored and recorded.
“Muda aims to be transparent to the public with how the funds are being delegated and will release the final book-keeping once everything is settled,” he said.
It was understood that Muda used social media platforms to reach out to students in need.
Among the trending hashtags is #TolongBantu, with students using it to seek help to leave their campuses, or to offer help to stranded students. – The Vibes, October 3, 2020
