USM steps up support for students amid SST-driven cost hike

New Straits Times

11-07-2025

GEORGE TOWN: Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) has introduced a series of proactive measures to help cushion the impact of the recent Sales and Service Tax (SST) increase, particularly for students from the B40 income group.
Among the key initiatives is the expansion of the Menu Rahmah programme to all residential college cafeterias, offering nutritious meals at affordable prices to ease students' financial burdens.
USM vice-chancellor Professor Datuk Seri Ir Dr Abdul Rahman Mohamed said the university remained committed to safeguarding student welfare amid rising economic pressures.
"This initiative is expected to provide some relief, especially for underprivileged students," he said in a statement today.
A special task force — chaired by Professor Dr Azlan Amran, who is currently discharging the duties of deputy vice-chancellor (student development affairs and alumni) — has been established to develop both short- and long-term strategies to support students affected by the cost-of-living crisis.
Students in urgent need of assistance are encouraged to contact the university's Welfare and Special Needs (OKU) Unit under the Division of Student Development Affairs (BHEPA).
The university's Zawain USM initiative has also been activated to distribute financial aid via special allocations to students requiring support.
"Targeted assistance for B40 students will continue and be strengthened to ensure they are not directly impacted by rising living costs," Abdul Rahman added.
The Food Bank @ USM initiative — which provides daily essentials and basic food items — has also been expanded to further assist financially vulnerable students.
USM is also actively pursuing external collaborations to enhance these efforts. One example is corporate partner Yusuf Taiyoob Sdn Bhd, which has pledged to donate nasi lemak meals daily to ensure students are not left hungry during their studies.
Meanwhile, BHEPA, in collaboration with the Student Representative Council (MPP), is conducting a survey to gauge the impact of inflation on students.
The survey focuses on key cost areas such as food, printing, e-hailing fares, and other daily essentials — with the findings to inform more targeted, long-term strategies.
Cafeteria operators have been reminded not to raise food prices, as they remain bound by pre-SST contractual agreements.
USM is also extending its support to off-campus students (Petas), ensuring they benefit from these measures.
In the longer term, the university is reviewing the rental rates of on-campus business premises to avoid burdening vendors and triggering further price hikes.
"These efforts reflect USM's continued commitment to prioritising student welfare and ensuring no one is left behind as we navigate the current economic climate," Abdul Rahman said.