Kuala Nerus, 23 March 2025 – A student from Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT), Nora Ashikin Ghazali, 21, expressed her gratitude for receiving full tuition fee assistance through the Siswa Sulung Development Programme 3.0.

Nora Ashikin is one of 120 UMT students who are benefitting from the programme since its implementation three years ago.

She said the assistance means a lot to her and helps ease her family’s financial burden, allowing her to give full focus on her studies.

“I am very grateful and thankful to UMT for this opportunity. This assistance not only provides relief to my family but also motivates me to strive for academic success,” she said.

She explained that the condition of her father, who is unable to perform strenuous work due to nerve issues and high blood pressure, has put her family in a dire financial crisis.

The programme’s offer letter has been personally handed over by UMT Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Ir. Ts Dr. Mohd Zamri Ibrahim, who was accompanied by UMT Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni) during a visit to Nora Ashikin’s home in Kampung Kubang Parit, Kuala Terengganu, today.

During the handover session, Prof. Ir. Ts Dr. Mohd Zamri Ibrahim emphasised the importance of balancing academics and extracurricular activities in shaping students’ character.

“Students should not only focus on academics alone but also actively participate in extracurricular activities to develop their character, leadership skills, and soft skills,” he stated.

“UMT remains committed to supporting its students in achieving academic excellence and producing quality, competitive graduates.”

The Siswa Sulung Development Programme 3.0 is one of the initiatives introduced by the government and implemented by UMT to support underprivileged students by covering their full tuition fees.

This initiative demonstrates UMT’s commitment to ensuring higher education is accessible to all, regardless of financial background.

Nora Ashikin, who is currently pursuing the Bachelor of Management (Maritime Operations) with Honours at UMT, hopes that such programmes will be continued to assist more students facing financial difficulties like her.

“I promise to study hard and make UMT proud as a token of appreciation for this assistance,” she added enthusiastically.

With initiatives like this, more students can focus on their studies without having to worry about tuition fees.

Published by:
Corporate Communications Office
Universiti Malaysia Terengganu