Perak Extends Free Food Aid For Exam Candidates, Says Saarani

IPOH, Oct 30 (Bernama) -- The Perak government is continuing its Free Food Aid programme under the Tuisyen Cikgu Saarani (TCS) initiative for public examination candidates across the state, with an allocation of RM3.96 million, up from RM3.42 million last year.

Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said the programme, which commenced in 2021, demonstrates the state government's ongoing commitment to support the academic performance of its students.

Saarani said this year's programme will benefit 27,563 candidates sitting for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM), Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) and Sijil Tinggi Agama Malaysia (STAM) examinations from across the state.

"Students attending intensive exam preparation classes are provided with meals worth RM5 per day. The duration has also been extended from 20 to 25 days to cover the most critical preparation phase leading up to the exams.

“This is to ensure students have sufficient nutrition, remain energised, and can stay focused," he said at the state-level 2025 Main Yasin Recitation and Prayers ceremony for public examination students at Laman Seri Ridzuan last night.

Saarani added that the initiative is supported by the Perak State Agricultural Development Corporation (SADC) and Perak Water Board (LAP), each contributing RM1.05 million; Perbadanan Menteri Besar Perak (MB Inc) with RM750,000; Perak State Development Corporation with RM560,000; and Perak State Government Secretary Incorporated (SSI) with RM550,000.

He explained that these contributions will be channelled to the state government through the Tabung Amanah Didik, with Yayasan Perak acting as the coordinating agency, to ensure the aid reaches all schools across the state in cooperation with the District Education Offices.

He also said the programme has become a key intervention in supporting the well-being of exam candidates and improving student attendance at extra classes.

-- BERNAMA