Paitan girl faces financial hurdle to join Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS)

9 October 2024

KOTA KINABALU: Crisnanalina Jumis, a 20-year-old from Kampung Dalamas in Paitan, has achieved what many in her remote village dream of—being accepted into Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) after completing her Form 6 studies at SMK Pitas.

However, despite this significant achievement, her aspirations are now clouded by financial uncertainty.

The cost of registering for her studies, set at RM3,000, is an insurmountable sum for Crisnanalina’s family.

With a registration deadline looming on October 14, and additional expenses to cover, the young student's dream of higher education hangs in the balance.

Crisnanalina's family, consisting of her parents and four younger siblings, faces serious financial challenges.

Her father is a farmer, and her mother is a housewife, leaving them with little means to support her educational pursuit.

Life in Kampung Dalamas is already difficult, with limited opportunities and insufficient public infrastructure, further exacerbating the family's struggles.

The situation has been made worse by the lack of reliable internet access in her village, making it nearly impossible for Crisnanalina to apply for one-off financial assistance online.

She has been trying to access the Sabah government’s financial aid portal, but poor connectivity has hindered her progress.

Despite these setbacks, Crisnanalina remains determined and is continuing to seek assistance through whatever means she can.

In a heartfelt plea, her aunt, Jacinta Rukiah Japri, reached out to the public for help.

“Crisnanalina is the eldest of five siblings, and her brothers and sisters are all still in school. We really hope that there are kind-hearted individuals or groups who can assist her in registering with UMS,” Jacinta said, underscoring the urgency of the situation.

Although Crisnanalina’s cousin, Jessica Rechard, was also accepted to study agriculture at UMS in Sandakan, Jessica’s family, who own a small tuck shop, was fortunately able to cover her registration and expenses.

Crisnanalina's family, however, does not have such resources.

With just days remaining before the registration deadline, Jacinta hopes that enough funds can be raised to help

Crisnanalina begin her studies on October 14.

Those who wish to contribute to her registration and travel expenses to UMS in Kota Kinabalu can do so by donating to her Bank Simpanan Nasional account: 1299541100609551.

This is a call for compassion and support for a young girl striving to better her future despite the many obstacles in her path.

Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a difference in helping Crisnanalina achieve her dreams.