by AZALEA AZUAR
THE National Higher Education Fund Corp (PTPTN) called for the society to have good financial planning in its Merdeka message this year.
Chairman Datuk Seri Norliza Abdul Rahim said true independence is not just about a love for the country but also freedom from the burden of debt.
“True independence involves the community’s struggle to achieve a better quality of life, a strong sense of identity and a deep love for the country.
“Independence also brings a message about the importance of society having good financial planning to be free from the burden of debt,” she said in a statement.
PTPTN held Karnival Semarak Kasih Merdeka PTPTN 2024 alongside HAWA Pulau Pinang at Giant Bayan Baru, Penang on Sept 8, the second time it did so in the state.
The event was part of PTPTN’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme to encourage the community to save money and celebrate the Merdeka month.
The carnival offers a variety of activities for parents and children, including a sales exhibition, Rahmah Sale, archery clinic, e-sport games, colouring competitions, PTPTN Genius IQ slot, prize draw and special P&T Mascot appearance.
PTPTN opened a promotional counter at Simpan SSPN which offers a variety of exclusive souvenirs for account opening or additional deposits.
The agency also donated devices to 10 underprivileged students and held “Ngopi” session with Norliza to raise awareness on PTPTN’s role as well as to promote Simpan SSPN products.
“The highlight of this programme is the PTPTN Merdeka Charity Run 2024, an event featuring participants from higher learning institutions, strategic partners, PTPTN officials and local residents.
“This programme is very meaningful in fostering the spirit of patriotism in addition to promoting a healthy lifestyle in the community,” she said.
The 5km race involved installing flags in every house in the Bayan Baru residential area. This is in line with the “1 House 1 Jalur Gemilang” initiative for the Merdeka month celebration.
The event was officiated by the Bayan Baru MP Sim Tze Tzin. Also present were Norliza, PTPTN Management Board member Datuk Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar and PTPTN CEO Ahmad Dasuki Abdul Majid.
PTPTN is an agency under the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE).