KUALA LUMPUR: A total of 73 Dayak undergraduates from Universiti Malaya (UM) who have just begun their academic journey for the 2024/2025 session received cash assistance from Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas on Tuesday,
The aid was presented by Persatuan Alumni Dayak Universiti Malaya (PADUM) president, Coolplay Nyipa, on behalf of Uggah. Notably, Uggah, who is also PADUM’s advisor, is an alumnus of UM himself.
The event was graced by Universiti Malaya Deputy Vice Chancellor (Student Affairs) Professor Dr Zamri Radzi, alongside Professor Madya Dr Muhamad Shakirin Mispan, director of the Students Entrepreneurship and Development Centre, Professor Madya Dr Julia Patrick Engkasan, Dr Pozi Milo and PADUM members.
Coolplay, in his remarks, shared that data from the university’s Student Affairs office indicates approximately 322 students are currently enrolled in UM’s bachelor’s degree and matriculation programmes.
“From that figure, about 83 per cent are Dayak students from the B40 family, the students are very grateful for the assistance,” he added.
He expressed his appreciation to Uggah and PADUM members for their contributions to the association’s education incentives and aid programme.
Meanwhile, Professor Madya Dr Muhamad Shakirin Mispan highlighted that 67 per cent of the undergraduates belong to the B40 group. He said, the minimum cost of living for each student is approximately RM1,000.00 per month, including fees.
Deputy Vice Chancellor Professor Dr Zamri Radzi, in his speech, commended PADUM’s efforts in assisting undergraduates, especially those from the B40 group.
He also expressed interest in potential collaborations with the association to organise events aimed at introducing Sarawak culture, particularly of the Dayak community, to the wider public.
“We hope that other associations could come forward to assist students from the B40 group,” he added.
