THE Covid-19 pandemic has evolved into a major unprecedented socio-economic crisis – a situation that many are unprepared for due to its continuing period.
Small- and medium-sized enterprises and other small businesses are badly affected, with many having to close shop. The economy is falling apart as jobs are being cut and disruptions increase in the supply chain, upending businesses. There is also a rise in poverty, especially among the B40 and vulnerable groups.
We are seeing every segment of the population being affected in one way or another during this pandemic.
To help cushion the impact, the government is implementing initiatives and programmes to lighten the burden of the people.
The government is doing its best to help the people. However, private higher learning institutions are turning a blind eye to the needs of students during these trying times.
Many such institutions are relentlessly pursuing students for outstanding fees. If students default in payments, their academic activities will be barred and they themselves be barred from graduating.
The prime minister has announced moratorium extensions and repayment flexibility to targeted groups by banks and other financial institutions. Even students’ obligation to PTPTN loans is given a reprieve by the Higher Education Ministry.
Why, then, are private higher learning institutions not being compassionate to the financial challenges faced by students and their parents?
More than a month ago, I have written a letter to Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Noraini Ahmad about this predicament faced by many students from private higher learning institutions. Unfortunately, I have not received any response from her or her ministry.
I believe the government should evaluate a moratorium for students caught in this dilemma, and who are unable to fulfil their financial commitment due to the pandemic.
Institutions of higher learning cannot act as “Ah Longs” to force students to pay or block them from all educational activities until payment is received. That is inconsiderate and does not speak well of the values being instilled at educational institutions.
This is a real-life situation faced by many parents, especially those who have lost their jobs or forced to close their businesses due to the coronavirus.
How will these parents be able to fulfil their financial obligations during this difficult time?
In addition, parents carry the guilt of seeing their children being victims of such circumstances. The students also face humiliation and embarrassment among their peers, as they are side-lined from activities at the respective universities.
Why is the higher education minister silent on this matter even after it is brought to her attention?
I am appalled with the attitude of the minister, who is an elected representative and in a position to help the people in a fair and just manner. It is irresponsible of the minister to ignore this appeal.
I hope this appeal reaches the prime minister, and he will evaluate this request. His focus should be on the interest of education and the students, as compared to profit to these institutions of higher learning.
With the movement control order being extended until February 18, this misery among students and parents will continue. More students will be left in a predicament of not being able to continue their education and graduate due to the high-handed decisions by many private higher learning institutions in Malaysia.
Please do not let our students be the victims of such unscrupulous decisions by these profit-motivated institutions. – The Vibes, February 3, 2021
Thomas Samuel from Batu Caves is a reader of The Vibes
