Many Malaysian graduates face PTPTN repayment challenges after completing their studies, especially when starting out in the workforce. To help borrowers meet their commitments without added strain, PTPTN offers a loan restructuring option under its Lestari Pendidikan campaign.

The initiative, introduced in 2023, provides flexible repayment plans so that borrowers can adjust instalment amounts and loan periods according to their current financial situation. This approach ensures that repayments remain manageable while keeping the fund sustainable for future students.

Flexible Repayment for Different Financial Situations

Monthly instalments can be reduced, and repayment periods extended, to help those experiencing financial difficulties or wanting more control over their cash flow.

Borrowers may qualify for the flexible repayment plans if they have high arrears or face challenges meeting their current repayment obligations, whether under Ujrah (Shariah-compliant) or conventional loans.

Borrowers Share Their Experiences

Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) graduate Ng Chai Yee turned to restructuring to ease the pressure of a low income in the years immediately after graduation. While working full-time and running a small side business, she applied through PTPTN’s online portal and found the process straightforward. Lower monthly instalments mean she can commit to payments without compromising her family’s stability.

Segi College Subang Jaya graduate Tharshini Subramanian faced similar difficulties at the start of her repayment period. Still looking for stable employment, she struggled to meet monthly instalments. Restructuring gave her a manageable plan, completed in less than two weeks, enabling her to focus on her career without constant financial stress.

Why Repayment Matters

Television personality Awal Ashaari, who once relied on a PTPTN loan, has stressed the importance of repaying when financially able. He shared that PTPTN funding allowed him to cover living and study expenses during his education, giving him the freedom to focus on his studies without burdening his parents.

Awal encouraged borrowers to make regular payments, even in small amounts, and suggested automated salary deductions to avoid missed instalments.

Financial Planning for Better Outcomes

According to Universiti Putra Malaysia senior lecturer Dr Chong Kok Fei, many graduates lack structured budgeting and spend based on cash availability rather than a plan. This often leads to delayed repayments and financial strain.

He explained that paying PTPTN loans on time offers long-term benefits beyond clearing debt. Timely repayments improve a borrower’s Central Credit Reference Information System (CCRIS) record, which can enhance eligibility for housing, vehicle, or business financing. Some employers also check credit records, making a clean repayment history an asset in the job market.

Borrowers interested in restructuring can begin the process through the myPTPTN mobile application or by contacting PTPTN’s hotline for guidance. The application can be completed online without visiting a branch.

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(Source: The Star)

• TAGS:
• Flexible Repayment Plans
• PTPTN
• PTPTN Loan
• Repayments