KUALA LUMPUR: The Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Tahfiz Programme will be strengthened through cross-ministry collaboration to widen access for tahfiz and religious school students.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said this initiative was discussed at the second National Cost of Living Action Council (NACCOL) executive committee meeting he chaired.
Several working papers were reviewed, including a proposal for collaboration between the Department of Polytechnic Education and Community Colleges and the Department of Skills Development.
“This effort will also add value to the programme through certification recognition in collaboration with JPK, KESUMA and the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA), which will enhance the employability of tahfiz students and increase their income in addressing the cost of living,” he stated.
The meeting also examined proposals from the Ministry of Education to tackle additional schooling costs.
These included rising Parent-Teacher Association fees and school bus fares.
Ahmad Zahid said the Ministry of Education was asked to review expenses for sports and uniformed activities.
The ministry will also engage state governments to provide free bus services for low-income groups.
The meeting received a briefing on the 2023/2024 Household Income and Expenditure Survey findings.
Increased income and changing lifestyles continue to shape Malaysian household spending patterns.
Spending is shifting from basic necessities toward services and non-essential goods.
“I believe the outcomes of this meeting demonstrate the government’s commitment to implementing various initiatives in addressing the cost of living, including through income-raising efforts, discount sale programmes and cash assistance,” he said.
Also present were Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali and his deputy, Datuk Dr Fuziah Salleh.
Senior ministry officials, state representatives, corporate bodies, NGOs, industry players and consumer representatives attended the meeting. – Bernama
