WE refer to the concerns raised by M.A (”Students here also need help” — NST, Dec 28) in support of the letter by A.F.Z.A (”Increase our grants” — NST, Dec 21) regarding inadequate scholarship funds for sponsored students in local universities.

The scholarships for students in local public and private universities were reviewed and increased last year.

The increases were announced by the prime minister during the Budget 2008 speech on Sept 7.

Medical students who are Public Service Department scholars in local universities will receive RM 9,240 (Rate A) or RM 7,854 (Rate B), depending on the location of their universities.

These represent a 68 per cent and 42 per cent increase from the previous rates.

Other allowances, such as for books, utilities, project paper, thesis and industrial training, have also been increased.

Presently, the PSD is in the process of making staggered payments of the new rates to all our sponsored students.

JOHN ANTONY XAVIERfor Public Service Department

Source: NST – January 2, 2008