Kuala lumpur: The Ministry of Finance (Treasury) has been instructed to explore ways to enhance the capabilities of pondok institutions, including upgrading existing facilities and improving the curriculum to better align with current needs. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated that this initiative is essential to ensure that students are equipped with not only religious knowledge but also the skills required to navigate contemporary challenges.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar, who also serves as the Finance Minister, assured that the traditional religious syllabus of pondok institutions would remain unchanged. However, it will be augmented with components such as Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), technology, and artificial intelligence (AI). He emphasized that the objective is not to alter the existing system but to enhance it by incorporating elements that align with current demands.
The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of not politicizing the government’s efforts to strengthen pondok institutions through infrastructure upgrades and curriculum improvements. He underscored that these measures are sincere efforts to prevent students from falling behind in the national mainstream and are made purely in the public interest, free from any political agenda.
Anwar expressed his intent to visit Jabhah Pondok Kelantan, accepting an invitation from Syeikh Wazir Che Awang Al-Makki Hafizahullah, the deputy chairman. He stressed that this initiative is separate from political views, focusing on the greater good. As an example of the government’s commitment, Anwar mentioned the provision of TVET education to 12,500 huffaz (Quran memorisers) to enhance their educational opportunities.
Additionally, Anwar praised the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) and its agencies, led by Minister Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, for organizing the 2025 Muzakarah Umara’ dan Ulama’ Pondok Kebangsaan (UMRAN) and Malaysia Bermunajat programs. He described these events as critical platforms for fostering collaboration between religious scholars and national leaders, advancing the MADANI policy framework.
Anwar also emphasized the importance of maintaining values, ethics, and religious understanding while pursuing technological advancements for national development. He asserted that progress would be hollow without a firm foundation in faith, ethics, culture, and religion, despite aiming for technological mastery.