By Lisa J. Ariffin
PUTRAJAYA, July 2 — Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin today launched the 1 Malaysia student discount card in an effort to combat the rising cost of living among university students.
The deputy prime minister said today the card offers various items and services to all students at institutions of higher learning at a lower rate.
“What’s more impressive is that the card is the cumulative idea of university students during the last national students consultative council (MPPK) meeting,” Muhyiddin (picture), who is also education minister, said at the launch of the discount card after a MPPK meeting here.
“The card is issued free to all Malaysian students, and about 1.5 million students in public and private institutions around the country will enjoy the benefits throughout their studies,” he added.
He said 51 companies have signed up to participate in the scheme (dubbed KDS1M), offering students up to 60 per cent discounts on purchases including on books, stationery, clothes, food, IT products, accommodation as well as health benefits.
At the MPPK meeting, Muhyiddin said many ideas and suggestions put forward by university students have been considered and implemented by the government.
“They include providing jobs to graduates in various sectors under the 12 national key economic areas and the launch of the Career for You portal,” he said.
“This shows the government seriously considers every suggestion and idea raised by student leaders,” he added.
He hoped students would raise constructive ideas and views through the “proper channels like MPPK” and “give full commitment towards the country’s transformation agenda”.
“Whatever issue we fight for, street demonstrations are not in our culture,” he said.
He added the government was always ready to listen to the woes and views of the public.
“Avoid involvement in unlawful activities that can affect peace in the country and jeopardise your personal safety just so your voices can be heard.
“Students as the future generation of our developing country have to preserve the peace and prosperity we have right now.”