Students from Johor pursuing higher education in Sabah and Sarawak have welcomed the state government’s ‘Meh Balik Kampus 2026’ initiative, which provides financial support for travel home after Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
Abdul Shahid Abdul Muhaimin, 22, a Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) Labuan International Campus student, said the RM200 to RM400 flight aid was especially helpful for those studying far from home. “It allows us to spend more on daily expenses while on campus,” he told Bernama during the Johor Students’ Breaking of Fast event.
Similarly, UMS student Nur Syafiqah Nor Hisam, 22, described the assistance as crucial given the high cost of air travel, including baggage and meals. “The support really eases our financial burden and motivates us to perform better academically,” she said.
Muhammad Irfan Firdaus Md Fauzi, president of the National Johor Students’ Association (GAJ), urged students to make full use of the state’s support, which includes the RM200 Johor Students Incentive (IMAJ), free bus services, and flight aid for those studying in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan. “The aid encourages students to contribute back to Johor and support the state’s human capital development,” he added.
State Education and Information Committee chairman Aznan Tamin said RM1.4 million had been allocated for the initiative. For the first time this year, special flight assistance is being offered alongside free bus transport for students returning to campus.
Launched under Pillar 3: Young Johoreans of the Johor 2026 Budget, the ‘Meh Balik Kampus 2026’ programme aims to reduce travel costs for students while enhancing welfare and strengthening the state’s human capital.
