Johor Bahru: The Johor state government has issued a stern reminder to unregistered Private Islamic Educational Institutions (IPIS), including kindergartens, that operating without registration is an offence and action can be taken. Johor Islamic Religious Affairs Committee chairman Mohd Fared Mohd Khalid emphasized the importance of registration for all Islamic educational institutions within the state to ensure proper management and adherence to Islamic teachings.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Fared stated that Johor, through the Johor Islamic Religious Council (MAINJ), places great emphasis on the development of Islamic teachings, particularly in Islamic education, which has been implemented for over 100 years. He acknowledged the contributions of individuals and non-governmental organisations in promoting Islamic education but stressed that registration with MAINJ is mandatory under the Control of Islamic Religious Schools Enactment (EPSAI) 1991.

Mohd Fared urged all IPIS to register as required by the enactment, noting that registration can be facilitated through any District Islamic Education Office (PPID). This requirement applies to any Islamic educational institution in Johor, including mosques, madrasahs, and kindergartens, where five or more individuals are taught subjects related to Islam, excluding Islamic schools under the Ministry of Education and the Johor state government.

He highlighted that the purpose of registration is to regulate and ensure these institutions are managed properly, safeguarding the welfare of students and employees and ensuring teachings align with ‘Ahli Sunnah wal Jamaah.’ Currently, 229 IPIS have registered with MAINJ, including various schools and tahfiz centres, while 25 are in the process of registration. However, 247 institutions are known to be operating without having initiated registration.