Following SOP, UMP students leave to celebrate Aidilfitri

PEKAN, 4 May 2021 - To date, Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP) has received applications from about 1,800 students from PKPP, PKPB and PKP areas to return to their hometowns to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

However, students from Sarawak and in RMCO localities are not allowed to return home.

It is in line with the media statement by the Minister of Higher Education, Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Dr. Noraini Ahmad and the National Security Council Special Meeting held on 28 April 2021 that has agreed to allow students of the institutions of higher learning to return to their hometowns in conjunction with the Aidilfitri holiday, except Sarawak.

According to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Student Affairs & Alumni), Professor Dato’ Dr. Yuserrie Zainuddin, who heads the Student Management Task Force (New Norm), said the UMP management has also agreed to set up a mechanism where it is implemented in phases to control the movement of students.

“The students are also given the choice of either to return to their homes or to remain on campus for the holiday.

“This approval is in line with the flexibility given previously by the NSC to the education sector.

“The date specified for the movement to return is based on three methods which are using their own vehicles, picked up by parents/guardians, or using vehicles coordinated by UMP,” he said.

For students who return using their own vehicles, he said, they are allowed to drive their own vehicles with a letter of permission issued by UMP from 7 to 12 May and are expected to return to the campus from 15 to 10 May.

Students are not allowed to use public transport except airline service.

“In addition, parents/guardians of students who need to travel cross-district/state must bring along a cross-district/state travel clearance letter or return to campus issued by UMP.

“They can start their journey from 7 to 12 May and return to the campus from 15 to 20 May 2021,” he said.

He added that for those who use vehicles coordinated by UMP, transportation will be provided but limited.

The travel times and bus stop centres for each state is based on UMP’s stipulation.

“The movement will start from 7 to 11 May and return to the campus from 16 to 20 May 2021,” he said.

Profesor Dato’ Dr. Yuserrie also reminded only the current students, students who are undergoing industrial training and students who have been identified by UMP under the six categories are allowed to return to the campus for the Aidilfitri holiday.

“Students should take this opportunity to be with their families and always adhere to the SOPs at home to curb the spread of Covid-19, which is still escalating in the country,” he said.

Students who need further information can call the UMP Operation Rooms at 09-549 3333 (UMP Gambang) and 09-424 6999 (UMP Pekan) for any relevant advice and procedures.

By: Mimi Rabita Abdul Wahit, Corporate Communications Unit, The Office of The Vice-Chancellor

Translation by: Dr. Rozaimi Abu Samah, Engineering College/Faculty of Chemical and Process Engineering Technology