Haram to Delay Repaying PTPTN Loans, Says Penang Mufti
Islam’s Stance on Repayment of Debts
Penang Mufti Sukki Othman has emphasized that it is considered "haram" or forbidden for Muslims not to repay their National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN) loans without valid reasons. This comes as a stern warning to borrowers who have yet to settle their debts, including retirees who are among those defaulting on their loans.
Consequences of Delayed Repayment
Sukki pointed out that delaying repayment of PTPTN loans is not only forbidden in Islam but also has severe consequences. "Imagine if a debtor dies. They will be held accountable for the debt they have not repaid. If they have an inheritance, their debt must be settled first before being distributed to the heirs," he said. He emphasized that Islam advises its followers to avoid debt unless it is absolutely necessary, and to repay debts promptly for the benefit of both this world and the hereafter.
Comparing Repayment of PTPTN Loans to Other Debts
The dean of UKM’s Islamic studies faculty, Izhar Arif Kashim, highlighted that repaying an educational loan through PTPTN is similar to repaying debts involving other assets such as vehicles and homes. "This money is intended to help students in need to continue their education," he said. "It is haram and sinful if we neglect repaying such debts and we will be held accountable in the hereafter."
The State of PTPTN Loans
According to a report, PTPTN recorded RM11.32 billion in loan arrears involving 1.25 million defaulting borrowers as of September 2024. The corporation’s chairman, Norliza Abdul Rahim, emphasized that it is crucial for borrowers to repay their loans so that PTPTN can continue providing education loans. The corporation needs about RM3 billion a year to cover the 450,000 existing borrowers in universities and 150,000 new borrowers every year.
Concerns Over PTPTN Borrowers
Higher education minister Zambry Abdul Kadir reported that 430,000 PTPTN borrowers have never made a single repayment to the corporation, despite some of them having long established themselves in their careers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Islamic perspective on repaying debts is clear: it is haram to delay repayment, especially if one has the financial means to do so. As Sukki Othman emphasized, repaying debts promptly is essential for the benefit of both this world and the hereafter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is PTPTN?
A: PTPTN is the National Higher Education Fund Corporation, a Malaysian government agency that provides education loans to students.
Q: Why is delaying repayment of PTPTN loans considered haram?
A: According to Islamic principles, delaying repayment of debts, especially if one has the financial means to do so, is considered haram and forbidden.
Q: What are the consequences of delaying repayment of PTPTN loans?
A: Delayed repayment of PTPTN loans can lead to severe consequences, including being held accountable for the debt in the hereafter, and potentially harming one’s reputation and relationships.
Q: How many PTPTN borrowers are defaulting on their loans?
A: As of September 2024, PTPTN recorded 1.25 million defaulting borrowers, with RM11.32 billion in loan arrears.