Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim met pondok leaders to discuss a digital transformation programme aimed at modernising traditional Islamic education.
KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim received a courtesy call from representatives of six traditional Islamic boarding schools, or pondok institutions, today.
The meeting, held in Putrajaya, was part of the Digital Transformation of Islamic Education Institutions (IPI) pilot programme.
The institutions represented were Maahad Tarbiah Islamiah in Derang, Pokok Sena, Kedah; Pusat Pengajian Pondok in Kandis, Bachok, Kelantan; Institut Ahmad Ibni Idris (SAIFI) in Rembau, Negeri Sembilan; Pusat Pendidikan Ribath Al-Musthofa in Kuantan, Pahang; Pondok Darul Furqan in Ipoh, Perak; and Maahad Ihya Ulumiddin in Mengkuang Titi, Bukit Mertajam, Penang.
During the discussions, Anwar expressed confidence in the ability of pondok institutions to explore new areas while preserving the tradition of turath al-Islami.
He emphasised the growing importance of mastering digital skills, particularly in artificial intelligence, to face contemporary challenges.
“This effort will hopefully build a strong foundation for the future of Islamic education in the region,” the Prime Minister said in a Facebook post following the meeting.
The IPI pilot programme is a joint initiative by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM).
