PTPTN Strengthens Financial Literacy Among Young Generation Through Simpan SSPN Short Theatre Contest

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 17 (Bernama) -- The theatre RM1 Untuk Esok (RM1 For Tomorrow) saw Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Benoni, Papar, Sabah, emerge as the champion of the 2026 national-level Simpan SSPN Short Theatre Competition organised by the National Higher Education Fund Corporation (PTPTN), as part of efforts to foster a culture of saving and enhance financial literacy among the younger generation. 

The school took home RM3,750 in cash, along with a trophy and certificate. 

SK Balik Pulau, Penang, secured second place with its theatre Fantasi Simba: Dari Rimba Ke Menara Impian (Simba’s Fantasy: From the Jungle to the Tower of Dreams), while third place went to SK St Paul, Negeri Sembilan, with Simpanan Sejuta Impian (Savings for a Million Dreams). The winners received RM3,000 and RM2,250 respectively, along with certificates. 

The prize-giving ceremony was officiated by PTPTN Chief Executive Ahmad Dasuki Abdul Majid and attended by PTPTN Chief Operating Officer Mastura Mohd Khalid, PTPTN Chief Financial Officer Azhar Ahmad, Education Ministry (MOE) Sports, Co-curriculum and Arts Division assistant director Sanoyah Yusof, state education directors and headmasters of the participating schools here yesterday. 

In a statement, Ahmad Dasuki said the competition received an overwhelming response, with 45 schools from 13 states taking part during the state-level Simpan SSPN Ceria Carnival (KCS), held simultaneously nationwide on June 27. 

He said the competition offered cash prizes totalling more than RM15,000, including eight special awards in recognition of schools, teachers and pupils who demonstrated creativity, quality and outstanding performance throughout the competition. 

“May this recognition serve as an encouragement to everyone involved to continue developing their talents and producing even more creative works in the future,” he said. 

Winners at each level received prizes in the form of Simpan SSPN accounts in recognition of their achievements, creativity and talent.

According to PTPTN, the competition was open to schools implementing the Education Savings Club (KSP) Module, particularly following the implementation of the new KSP Module at the beginning of the 2026 school session. 

The competition, themed Simpanan Sejuta Impian (Savings for a Million Dreams), was among PTPTN’s initiatives to provide students with early exposure to the importance of financial management and foster a culture of saving from a young age. 

The competition not only served as a platform to convey messages on the importance of saving through Simpan SSPN, but also provided pupils with an opportunity to showcase their talent, creativity and confidence in the performing arts. 

The approach is in line with PTPTN’s efforts to support talent development, character building and holistic student development, while fostering appreciation for arts and culture. 

According to PTPTN, the participation of upper primary students in the competition also provided added value through the Physical Activity, Sports and Co-curricular Assessment (PAJSK), subject to the requirements set by the Education Ministry (MOE). 

By introducing financial education at the school level, PTPTN believes that the younger generation will not only understand the importance of saving, but also develop a stronger foundation in financial management as preparation for a more structured education future. 

Further information on Simpan SSPN can be obtained via PTPTN’s official portal at www.ptptn.gov.my or the myPTPTN application. 

-- BERNAMA