Students from Johor at higher education institutions in Sabah and Sarawak have praised the state government’s ‘Meh Balik Kampus 2026′ initiative, which helps them save money on travel when they return to campus after the Hari Raya Aidilfitri holidays.
Abdul Shahid Abdul Muhaimin, 22, a student at Universiti Malaysia Sabah’s (UMS) Labuan International Campus, said to Bernama that the assistance was especially useful for those studying away from home.
“As a student from Johor, I’m glad the state government hasn’t overlooked us studying away from home.
“It’s even more meaningful because the RM200 to RM400 flight cost can be used for daily expenses for two weeks on campus,” he told Bernama at the Johor Students’ Breaking of Fast event.
Another UMS student, Nur Syafiqah Nor Hisam, 22, said the flight assistance was critical, as air travel is one of the most expensive expenses for students in Sabah and Sarawak.
“The cost for students is high, not including baggage and meals. “The state government’s assistance greatly alleviates our burden and motivates us to succeed,” she stated.
Meanwhile, the National Johor Students’ Association (GAJ) president, Muhammad Irfan Firdaus Md Fauzi, urged students to take full advantage of state assistance, such as the RM200 Johor Students Incentive (IMAJ), free bus services, and flight ticket assistance for those studying in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan.
“The aid isn’t just for daily expenses; it’s also to encourage students to give back to Johor and contribute to the state’s community and human capital development,” he explained.
Aznan Tamin, chairman of the State Education and Information Committee, stated that the government has allocated RM1.4 million for the “Meh Balik Kampus 2026” initiative.
He explained that for the first time this year, the state government is providing special flight assistance to Johor students studying in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan, as well as free bus transportation for those returning to campus.
The ‘Meh Balik Kampus 2026’ initiative, launched as part of Pillar 3: Young Johoreans of the Johor 2026 Budget, aims to improve student welfare by lowering travel costs, ultimately supporting the state’s human capital development.
