AIA Public Takaful Launches Penyala Harapan Scholarship Prog To Empower Purpose - Driven Youth

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 19 (Bernama) -- AIA PUBLIC Takaful Bhd today launched the AIA Penyala Harapan Scholarship Programme, an initiative aimed at supporting purpose-driven Malaysian students through education, with RM1.6 million in scholarships to be channelled in partnership with International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM).

The scholarship is made possible through the donation of surplus by AIA PUBLIC Takaful certificate participants, which are collectively channelled into the AIA Penyala Harapan Charity Fund — a dedicated fund established by the takaful operator to support various charitable causes that contribute to the upliftment and wellbeing of communities across Malaysia.

AIA, in a statement said that the scholarship is open to first-year degree students pursuing studies in Islamic Banking, Islamic Finance, and Law with RM1.6 million allocated to support 20 scholars in the inaugural cohort, covering tuition fees and living expenses for the full duration of their programmes up to four years.

“Scholars may be offered internship opportunities with AIA PUBLIC Takaful, subject to fulfilling academic and programme requirements,” according to the statement.

Meanwhile, chief executive officer of AIA PUBLIC Takaful Mohd Asri Omar, said the company is delighted that the scholarship programme marks the first initiative enabled by AIA Penyala Harapan Charity Fund.

“At AIA, our purpose is to help people live healthier, longer, better lives — and we believe education is a powerful way to achieve that.

“With IIUM as our partner, we’re focused on nurturing students who are driven by passion and purpose, empowering them to take charge of their futures and make a positive impact — not only in their own lives, but also in the lives of their families and communities,” he said.

According to AIA, this initiative also reflects the essence of their unique Total Shariah Solutions proposition, which is guided by the principles of Maqasid Shariah to demonstrate that Takaful is more than just a protection plan — it carries a deeper purpose.

“Through one of its key pillars, Berkat Sama-sama, our product solutions enable customers to embrace the spirit of togetherness by donating their surplus for the greater good of society.

“We are honoured to be entrusted by our customers to channel these contributions towards helping young Malaysians pursue their academic aspirations and build purposeful careers, and we are deeply grateful for their generosity in making it possible,” it said.

AIA PUBLIC Takaful said that their goal is to build a sustainable scholarship ecosystem that continues to uplift and inspire youth, and it hopes to see the next generation thrive through the power of education.

IIUM was selected as a strategic partner for its strong academic reputation and its role as Malaysia’s leading Islamic university — and one of the top Islamic institutions globally.

 Deputy Rector of Student Development and Community Engagement at IUM, Prof Datuk Dr Mohamad Fauzan bin Noordin added: “We are honoured to collaborate with AIA PUBLIC Takaful on this meaningful initiative.

He said at IIUM, they are committed to nurturing well-rounded graduates who embody both academic excellence and strong ethical values.

“We believe this partnership will not only benefit our students but also strengthen the spirit of shared responsibility within the takaful community and will inspire greater collaborative efforts to support education and social progress.” he said.

Scholar selection will be based on a combination of academic performance, financial need, and clear aspirations for the future and this partnership ensures that scholars receive not only financial support but also the guidance needed to excel academically and personally.

“Eligible students who have secured admission into the specified degree courses at IIUM are encouraged to apply through the university’s IEF Division or visit www.aia.com.my for more information,” said the statement.

-- BERNAMA