PM Anwar announces RM200 million for pondok and tahfiz schools, emphasising their role in faith, values, and mastering AI and Malay language.
BUKIT MERTAJAM: The government will continue to strengthen community religious schools nationwide through special allocations to improve their facilities and educational equipment.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the government provided RM150 million last year, with the allocation increased to RM200 million this year.
“We want to elevate the standing of religious education because these pondok institutions and community religious schools have long served as a bulwark safeguarding the faith and moral values of the ummah,” he said.
He officiated the opening of Masjid Kubang Ulu here today.
Anwar noted pondok institutions have an important historical role dating back to the colonial era, when they became a stronghold in defending faith, morality and identity.
The government respects the educational methodologies set by scholars at these institutions, he added.
He hopes for their cooperation so improvement efforts align with current developments.
The Prime Minister reiterated that religious education institutions must be strengthened without neglecting new technologies like artificial intelligence.
“If we do not master AI, others who do not understand values and religion will dominate this field,” he said.
Anwar also wants religious schools to strengthen proficiency in the Malay language as a language of knowledge.
He emphasised enhancing the teaching of Malaysian history so the younger generation understands nationhood and the Federal Constitution.
This ensures students are aware of key constitutional guarantees, including Islam as the religion of the Federation.
Students must also understand the position of the Malay Rulers and the Malay language as the national language, while respecting the rights of all Malaysians.
“If we want to progress, we must reach for the skies with knowledge and technology, while remaining rooted to the ground through values, decorum and morality,” he said.
Anwar said he would hold discussions with several ministers to formulate the best approach to strengthening religious schools and pondok institutions. – Bernama
