Deputy PM Ahmad Zahid says proposal aims to continue pre-tahfiz learning from KEMAS preschools into primary education to prevent learning loss.
KUALA LUMPUR: The government is exploring plans to expand al-Quran and tahfiz education for primary school pupils starting next year.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said he recently held a crucial meeting with Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek on the matter.
He explained the discussion focused on curriculum alignment to ensure pre-tahfiz learning from KEMAS preschools continues seamlessly from Year One to Year Six.
“We want the pre-tahfiz learning at KEMAS preschools to be continued at the primary school level to avoid learning loss,” he said at the opening of Maahad Tahfiz AlMashrafe in Batu Caves.
Ahmad Zahid, who is also Rural and Regional Development Minister, said his ministry proposed additional classes for Muslim pupils to continue Quran memorisation.
When asked about recruiting more religious teachers, he said existing KEMAS preschool staff are sufficient.
He stated that implementation in national schools would be subject to the Education Ministry’s consideration.
Ahmad Zahid emphasised that expanding tahfiz education is an initiative to strengthen Islamic education for the younger generation.
He clarified that the effort carries no political motive.
In a related development, an agreement was reached with Fadhlina to align KEMAS’s role as feeder schools to national schools.
