Kuala Lumpur: Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin has called for the rebranding of the Tabung Khairat Zainal Abidin, a religious education fund, to modernise its structure and strengthen support for Islamic institutions across the state. The Sultan noted that the fund, established in 1932, has long been a cornerstone of religious education in Terengganu.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, among the institutions it has supported are Sekolah Menengah Agama Sultan Zainal Abidin (SMASZA) Ladang, Sekolah Menengah Agama (Atas) Sultan Zainal Abidin (SMAASZA) Batu Buruk, and Kolej Agama Sultan Zainal Abidin (KUSZA), now Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA).

The Sultan proposed that the Khairat Zainal Abidin fund be rebranded to integrate wakaf (endowment), donations, and almsgiving. This proposition was made at the launch of the 100th anniversary of Sekolah Arab Sultan Zainal Abidin and the book Permata Darul Iman, held in conjunction with his 63rd birthday celebration. Also present at the event were Sultanah of Terengganu, Sultanah Nur Zahirah, and the Yang Di-Pertuan Muda of Terengganu, Tengku Muhammad Ismail Sultan Mizan.

Sultan Mizan emphasized the importance of continued cooperation between the palace, school administrators, and the public in sustaining the fund’s mission. His Royal Highness urged all institutions bearing the name of Sultan Zainal Abidin III to work closely together in navigating the growing challenges of modern civilisation.

He assured that particular attention will be given to ensuring these madrasahs are equipped with infrastructure and technology that reflect the compassionate legacy of Sultan Zainal Abidin III.