(Kuala Lumpur, 24th) While many parents believe that school expenses are only a temporary burden at the start of a new academic year, for tens of thousands of low-income families, the financial pressure continues even after registration is completed.
From replacing worn-out shoes and uniforms to providing stationery, glasses, and daily necessities, the hidden costs of schooling are challenges that many families face throughout the year.
Recognizing these long-standing difficulties, Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) continues to strengthen its education-focused community initiatives to help underprivileged students continue their studies more comfortably and with greater confidence.
Initiatives such as the “Back to School Joy Programme,” the “Pintar School Adoption Programme,” and the “Trust Schools Programme” (TSP) not only help to ease economic burdens, but also boost students’ confidence, motivation to learn, and perspectives beyond the classroom.
Educators participating in these programmes point out that while the assistance may seem simple, for students—especially those from disadvantaged communities—it can have a significant impact.
Ummar Khairsem, a teacher at Siraj Suba Jawi Religious Integrated Primary School in Tun Razak Town, Kuala Lumpur, said the "Back to School Joy Programme" helps students overcome barriers that could affect their learning experience.
She said: “I am very grateful to the ‘Back to School Joy Programme’ for providing aid to underprivileged children, helping them overcome financial obstacles and realise their potential. Such initiatives should be expanded so more students and families in need can benefit.”
Formerly known as the “Back to School Programme,” the “Back to School Joy Programme” aims to help the B40 group of low-income families reduce education-related expenses, providing uniforms, shoes, stationery, and other basic necessities for underprivileged students across the country.
Since its launch in 2013, this initiative has benefited over 86,000 families, including those in Sabah and Sarawak. In addition to providing essential school supplies, student development programmes are also regarded as equally important for cultivating confidence, leadership, and social development among children in rural and disadvantaged communities.
Khalidah Ahmad, a teacher at SK Kerunai in Gerik, Perak, described the “Pintar School Adoption Programme” as an initiative that provides students with meaningful experiences beyond the classroom.
“The Pintar School Adoption Programme is an interesting and challenging initiative that offers students opportunities to interact with new friends, explore new places, and gain valuable experiences. It truly contributes to their growth and development.”
Launched by Khazanah Nasional in 2007, this programme focuses on enhancing educational opportunities for students in rural and disadvantaged areas through academic support activities, motivational camps, sports training, and leadership courses.
Aligned with the “Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2035,” this initiative has benefited over 4,000 students from 66 primary schools nationwide.
Additionally, the “Trust Schools Programme,” launched in 2017 through the cooperation of TNB, the Ministry of Education, and Yayasan AMIR, aims to improve the quality of education in designated national schools.
This programme focuses on enhancing student learning outcomes through teacher training, better school management, and improved school environments.
Apart from educational support, TNB has also provided over a thousand students nationwide with free eyeglasses through the “Better Brighter Vision Programme.”
These initiatives reflect TNB’s commitment to helping underprivileged students gain better educational opportunities and continue learning in a more supportive environment.
Beyond academic support, these initiatives also represent ongoing efforts from all sectors to ensure that children from disadvantaged backgrounds are not marginalized due to financial difficulties or limited opportunities.