McDonald’s Malaysia expands its Santun Pelajar programme to 75 higher learning institutions nationwide in 2026, distributing up to 1 million Nasi Mekdi vouchers to students facing living cost pressures.

McDonald’s Malaysia announced the expansion in Johor on June 18, 2026 as a continuation of a February launch that had distributed 50,000 Nasi Mekdi meals during Ramadan. The company worked with universities to channel assistance to students identified as needing food support.

A cited Nutrition Society of Malaysia report found more than 60% of students at several public universities faced food insecurity, affecting daily well-being and academic focus. The extended programme allocated Nasi Mekdi vouchers to each participating institution from April 20 to December 31, 2026.

The initiative initially involved 20 institutions and later covered 75 universities, polytechnics, community colleges, private colleges and MARA institutions. Student Affairs Departments at participating institutions were tasked with identifying eligible recipients.

At Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia (UTHM), over 13,000 Nasi Mekdi vouchers were allocated to students. Distribution at UTHM was carried out with the Student Affairs Department and the UTHM Student Representative Council.