234 religious schools nationwide are now registered as Government-Aided Religious Schools (SABK) under the Ministry of Education’s empowerment initiative.
ALOR GAJAH: A total of 234 religious schools nationwide have been registered as Government-Aided Religious Schools (SABK). This initiative is part of the government’s efforts to support and empower Islamic education institutions in Malaysia.
Ministry of Education secretary-general Datuk Dr Aminuddin Hassim (pic) said the ministry is still receiving SABK registration applications. These include 19 applications from schools in Kelantan.
He stated that approvals follow a strict process under existing MOE laws and policies. Applications must be reviewed by the SABK Registration Technical and Main Committees.
“We will also assess the schools’ readiness, including land status, building safety, the preparedness of the management committee and the quality and readiness of teachers, as they will be integrated into the government service,” he said.
Aminuddin added that the goal is to position SABK as a top educational option. He said the ministry does not want religious schools to be seen as a second choice.
He made these comments after signing a Memorandum of Understanding to register Sekolah Menengah Imtiaz Ulul Albab under the SABK initiative. The Melaka Islamic Religious Council (MAIM) secretary Shaifulfazlee Mohamad represented the school.
Aminuddin explained that the status change will not erase a school’s identity. The MOE will reinforce its management and facilities to benefit students and the school community.
“The change in the school’s status does not affect the management committee’s authority or role; rather, it gives them a strong strategic partner in the MOE,” he said.
He clarified that the school’s land and assets remain under the administrators. The MOE will handle staffing and provide financial support based on government resources.
The registration process for Sekolah Menengah Imtiaz Ulul Albab will take between three and six months to complete. This is provided it complies with all documentation requirements and conditions set by the MOE.
Sekolah Menengah Imtiaz Ulul Albab Melaka was established in 2012 to nurture hafiz who excel academically. It is managed by MAIM and the school management board.
