KAFA Five-day Class Pilot Under Review Before Rollout - Marhamah

KOTA BHARU, March 17 (Bernama) -- The pilot programme for the five-day Quran and Fardu Ain (KAFA) classes is still undergoing improvements and a comprehensive review before its implementation is finalised, said Deputy Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Senator Marhamah Rosli.

She said the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) is planning to involve 200 KAFA teachers in the pilot programme, with 100 in Melaka and 100 in Perak.

"We need to recognise that most KAFA classes currently run three days a week and use existing premises such as national schools, which also host co-curricular activities.

"As such, moving to a five-day model would require suitable premises that can properly meet students’ needs," she told reporters after attending the Santuni MADANI programme with KAFA teachers here today.

At the event, 450 KAFA teachers from Pasir Mas, Kota Bharu, Bachok and Tumpat received Aidilfitri contributions.

Marhamah added that they are holding engagement sessions with the Education Ministry to review various aspects, including teachers’ working hours, allowance structures, welfare of teachers and students, and operational needs.

"This is a pilot programme and will not be expanded, but if successful, it could pave the way for restructuring the roles of 36,500 KAFA teachers nationwide.

"The pilot programme is planned for two years, but it is still at the proposal stage by JAKIM and awaits approval from the relevant authorities," she added.

-- BERNAMA