McDonald's Malaysia Expands Santun Pelajar Programme To 75 IPT

KUALA LUMPUR, June 24 (Bernama) -- McDonald's Malaysia has expanded its Santun Pelajar Programme to 75 higher learning institutions (IPT) nationwide, targeting the distribution of one million Nasi Mekdi vouchers by year-end to help students cope with rising living costs.

In a statement today, the company said the programme, which previously involved 20 institutions, has been expanded through closer collaboration with universities to ensure assistance reaches students who need it most.

McDonald's Malaysia senior vice-president and chief impact officer Melati Abdul Hai said the programme reflects the company's commitment to supporting university students amid rising living costs.

"The Santun Pelajar Programme reflects our commitment to continue supporting students at higher learning institutions as they cope with rising living costs.

"We believe access to necessities such as food plays an important role in ensuring students remain focused on their studies and achieve their full potential," she said.

As part of the programme's second phase, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM) was selected as one of the first locations for the symbolic handover of Nasi Mekdi vouchers at the tertiary education level.

More than 13,000 vouchers have been allocated to students identified as needing assistance, with distribution being carried out in collaboration with UTHM's Student Affairs Office and Student Representative Council.

UTHM board member Ir Ts Dr Abdul Rahman Bahasa said the university appreciated McDonald's Malaysia's initiative in supporting students' welfare.

"The university welcomes and appreciates McDonald's Malaysia's initiative in supporting the welfare of our students.

"Through this programme, implemented together with UTHM's Student Affairs Office, we can ensure that food security and students' daily well-being remain a priority, which is important in supporting their academic performance and emotional well-being on campus," he said.

From April 20 to Dec 31, each participating institution will receive Nasi Mekdi vouchers for distribution to eligible students identified by their respective Student Affairs Offices.

The Santun Pelajar Programme previously saw 50,000 Nasi Mekdi meals distributed to students nationwide during Ramadan this year.

The initiative also complements McDonald's Malaysia's existing youth development efforts through the McDonald's Malaysia Vocational Academy and industrial training opportunities aimed at enhancing skills development, employability and career prospects for young people.

The company said the programme will continue to be expanded in stages to build a more comprehensive support ecosystem encompassing basic needs, employability and future development.

-- BERNAMA