RANAU: Some 1,000 secondary students from across the district benefited from the Axiata Foundation’s Back-to-School programme, here, Monday.
Through the programme, Axiata Foundation continues its commitment to supporting equitable and accessible education, especially in preparation for the 2026 academic year.
Axiata Foundation has been actively supporting local communities in Sabah through various initiatives anchored on its three core pillars — Education, Community Investments and Environment.
Among its ongoing efforts, the Foundation collaborates with the Sabah Social Entrepreneurs Association (Sosea) to empower rural communities through sustainable livelihoods, skills development and income-generation initiatives.
It also partners with Pandai Education to enhance digital learning access for B40 students through premium app subscriptions, and with Hopes Malaysia to improve access to clean water in Kota Belud via the Gravity Water Project, while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.
The continued implementation of the Back-to-School programme reflects Axiata Foundation’s ongoing commitment to strengthening educational access and inclusivity, especially among B40 households, through the distribution of school essentials to students.
The official launch ceremony, held at SJKC Pai Wen, marked a significant milestone in the Foundation’s efforts to expand its programme reach in Borneo.
The 1,000 students from five schools — SMK Mat Salleh, SMK Kundasang, SMK Ranau, SMK Lohan and SMKA Mohamad Ali - received complete school supply sets, including uniforms, shoes, socks and learning tools such as geometry sets or scientific calculators.
This initiative was carried out in close collaboration with the State Education Department (JPNS) and the Ranau District Education Office (PPD Ranau).
As part of the programme, Axiata presented a mock cheque worth RM214,000 to PPD Ranau, representing the foundation’s contribution towards providing school supplies to the beneficiaries.
To date, the Foundation’s Back-to-School programme has positively impacted at least 4,000 students nationwide, with a total investment of RM1.7 million channelled to support schooling preparations and build confidence among students.
Axiata Foundation’s Chief Executive Officer Mohamad Kamal Nawawi said:
“Axiata Foundation’s core mission in Education is to provide quality learning opportunities that are equitable and inclusive for all students.
“Axiata Foundation plays a vital role in supporting the welfare and education of these children through the provision of targeted assistance and support.”
Also present at the event were Ranau Education Officer Barizah Mohd Kahar, Axiata Foundation officials, Education Department personnel, teachers and other local leaders.
