Kuantan: The Pahang Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MUIP) has allocated RM2.8 million in zakat to support 6,800 asnaf through the 2026 School Supplies Assistance Programme, which will run from today until February next year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, MUIP Zakat Distribution Division acting director Muhammad Khairuddin Husin stated that the assistance would be provided as non-cash credit, directly credited to the recipients' identification cards. This initiative will empower recipients to independently purchase essential school supplies, including uniforms, footwear, stationery, and sportswear, at participating supermarkets.

"This programme is part of MUIP's annual zakat distribution initiative, aimed at easing the financial burden of the poor ahead of the school session," Muhammad Khairuddin told reporters at a local supermarket today. He further noted that while RM2 million was allocated for the programme last year, the amount has been increased this year due to a rise in the number of recipients.

The assistance is available to schoolchildren aged four to 17, in line with current educational requirements, including support for early childhood education.