Kuala lumpur: The federal government has sanctioned the formation of the National Tahfiz Council, a significant move aimed at refining the direction, educational model, recognition standards, and academic progressions for tahfiz students across the nation. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi confirmed this development following a Cabinet meeting last week.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Deputy Prime Minister announced the approval during his speech at the Pahang State Huffaz Gathering 2026 held at Yayasan Pahang. The Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, has appointed him as the council's chairman, promising that this initiative will be a substantial advancement in the educational landscape.
The inaugural gathering successfully united over 5,000 huffaz from various parts of the state. Ahmad Zahid expressed optimism that the establishment of the National Tahfiz Council would integrate tahfiz education as a recognized pathway within the national education system. He envisions a future where tahfiz students can transition from madrasah to university, from memorization to acquiring skills, and from tahfiz institutions to professional careers with assured qualifications and opportunities.
Highlighting Pahang's role, Ahmad Zahid noted that the state exemplifies how tahfiz education can evolve into a comprehensive knowledge pathway. This begins from early childhood, continues through formal education, and reaches international standards. The Sultan of Pahang, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, has inspired early Quranic love through Tadika Tahfiz Negeri Pahang, forming a solid foundation for a structured and meaningful tahfiz education.
Furthermore, Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Rural and Regional Development Minister, mentioned that the government is reviewing enhancements to the National Tahfiz Policy 2.0 this year. This includes new initiatives like TVET Tahfiz, the Malaysian Tahfiz Certificate 2.0, Graded Hafazan Certification, Huffaz Financing Scheme, Malaysian Tahfiz Recognition Standard, and strategic partnerships with higher learning and skills institutions.
During the event, he witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Yayasan Pahang, the Community Development Department (KEMAS), and Majlis Amanah Rakyat (MARA) to further strengthen tahfiz education and expand skill development opportunities for huffaz.