Kuala lumpur: Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has asked the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) to coordinate with universities to consider providing free flight tickets to students from B40 families who are studying outside their home districts. The UMNO president said he had communicated the matter to Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zambry Abdul Kadir for consideration.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Ahmad Zahid has also instructed the Menteris Besar of Johor, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, and Perak, along with the Melaka Chief Minister, all leading UMNO-led state governments, to ensure free tickets for B40 students from their respective states who are studying in Sabah and Sarawak. This initiative aims to alleviate the financial burden faced by these students due to high airfares.

Ahmad Zahid made these remarks during his winding-up speech at the 2026 UMNO General Assembly, held at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur. The proposal for free flights was brought to attention after Sabah delegate Azuwan Marjan@Norjan highlighted the issue of high airfares affecting B40 students from Sabah and Sarawak yesterday.

The 2026 UMNO General Assembly concludes today after a four-day gathering, marking the end of discussions and proposals aimed at improving the welfare of students and other pressing issues.