KUALA LUMPUR: The Defence Ministry today announced the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) Savings Programme for the children of Armed Forces personnel of other ranks (in BM: Anggota Lain-lain Pangkat), who will begin their primary school year one this year.
Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the programme is known as Simpanan Pendidikan Madani (SPM) or the Madani Education Fund.
"This programme will involve contributions to the National Education Savings Scheme (SSPN) accounts for 9,355 armed forces personnel of other ranks' children who are in year one, with a total value of RM 467,750," he said in his speech at the Royal Military College (RMC) Passing Out Parade today.
The passing out parade comprised 219 form five students who had completed their stint at the Royal Military College (RMC) for the 2023 academic session.
Present were Defence Ministry secretary-general Datuk Seri Isham Ishak; Armed Forces chief General Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman; Army Chief General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan; Air Force chief General Tan Sri Mohd Asghar Khan Goriman Khan and deputy Navy Chief Vice-Admiral Datuk Zulhelmy Ithnain.
At the event, Khaled also announced that the government has agreed to allocate RM15 million for the maintenance and upgrading of schools within military camps nationwide.
"The allocation, channelled through the Education Ministry, will benefit 29 primary and secondary schools, including a Mara Junior Science College (MRSM) within military camps nationwide.
"We undertake both initiatives because we believe that welfare and quality education should be integral parts of the main focus of the Defence Ministry.
"Our personnel who constantly stand ready and loyal to risk their lives for the country should not be burdened with considering their welfare and that of their families.
"It is the responsibility of the government and the ministry to pay attention to these matters.
Earlier in his speech, Khaled said RMC is not an ordinary institution.
"This institution has its significance, mandate, and goals. The establishment of RMC is an important national agenda.
"This is where we identify and polish the best talents, to cultivate them with commitment and interest, to join the nation's defence forces and make meaningful contributions to the country in various fields.
"Therefore, we cannot allow the significance, mandate, and goals to be sidetracked and forgotten."
He said that with all the knowledge and skills provided, both academically and militarily, the ministry hopes the students will continue their studies and careers that support the interests of the country, especially in the defence sector," adding that the government spends RM21 million annually on RMC, including allowances for officers, teachers, and staff.
