Peninsular Malay Students Coalition’s (GPMS) president Mohd Alif Anas Md Noor recommended that the higher education ministry and university administrators act fast following complaints by students that the cancellation of the registration had left them stranded.

The student group suggested that the ministry allow universities to go ahead with the registration of students who had already arrived at campuses from various states, including from Sabah and Sarawak.

Alif said the ministry and universities must follow the SOPs set by the National Security Council (MKN) in managing the arrival of students, including screening and isolation, based on students’ places of origin.

Alif also suggested that up-to-date information, especially on any changes in procedures, must be circulated to the students through their student email or via official social media.

“At the same time, GPMS asks all parents and students to remain calm and not be influenced by the panic on social media. If there are any problems, contact the student affairs department at your institution,” he added.

“GPMS also urges any party — whether individual, political party, NGO or any private company — which wishes to help those stranded to contact the institutions concerned to ensure that all efforts and assistance go to the welfare and safety of the students.”

Yesterday, the ministry had urged higher education institutions (IPTs) to postpone all physical and face-to-face student admissions, given the increase in the number of Covid-19 cases in the country. This resulted in many students being left stranded at their campuses.

“The ministry suggests that all IPTs postpone physical or face-to-face registration of new and old students on campus for the time being.

“All registration matters as well as teaching and learning can be carried out online until the end of the month or until a new announcement regarding this issue is made.”