The utilisation of funds allocated for computer loans and transportation allowances under the Skills Development Fund Corporation (PTPK) has reached its optimum level as of July 31, according to the Ministry of Human Resources (KSM).

In a statement released today, KSM said that the approval of the loan application was made on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to the availability of skills training funds.

Since 2021, PTPK has expanded the scope of skills training loans to include not only training fees, takaful payments, and living expenses, but also computer loan facilities of up to RM2,500 and a travel allowance of RM2,000.

KSM said the provision of computer loan facilities and the transportation allowance were given on a one-off basis based on the application.

The provision of skills training loans for transportation and computer allowances was introduced to attract school leavers to take up Technical and Vocational Education Training (TVET), it said.

“This year, the number of applications for skill training loans increased and nearly reached the approved allocation ceiling.

“This situation may result in a freeze on loan applications until the end of the year,” said the statement.

The statement was issued following a report titled “Why has the skills development fund corp scrapped student traveling & laptop allowance?” by an online news portal.

According to KSM, PTPK still offers skills training loan facilities that cover training fees, takaful payments, and living allowances for trainees.

Source: BERNAMA News Agency