A point of view on the 97% increase in COLA

A dear friend and I had a very long conversation regarding the increment of overseas scholarship allowances up to 97%.

I would like to state here that I, as well as many other Malaysian students studying in the UK, welcome any increment to our monthly allowances.

However, could I ask anyone from the authority to answer the query as to how the cost of living allowances (COLA) research had been made which causes for the increment to be so high (97%!!)?

It is generally known that certain cities in the UK have a high standard and cost of living, London for instance. Albeit living in such place, I've seen photos of some of them going to exotic places elsewhere in the world, which implies that they have a good sum of money in their banks. At the same time, there are other cities which have quite a considerable atmosphere for students to live economically, yet some of them exhibit a modest and decent living.

Due to these differences, the monthly allowances given should not be a generalised and a flat-rate scheme for everyone throughout the UK. Students' needs for further increment on their monthly allowances should be treated case-by-case basis.

If the appointed body has made their research well, all we need now is good implementation on the system.

On one note, students should use the allowances given to enhance their experience abroad through engaging in discussions and interactions with the international community. Be wise.