Gov't Encourages IPI Registration To Facilitate Aid, Monitoring

PADANG BESAR, Feb 2 (Bernama) -- The government is calling on more Islamic Educational Institutions (IPI) nationwide to register with the relevant authorities, to facilitate more organised and effective monitoring as well as the distribution of aid.

Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Dr Zulkifli Hasan, said the measure is important to ensure each institution receives due attention on safety, infrastructure and student welfare.

“We wish to encourage all these institutions to register so that we can monitor and assist in strengthening them,” he told reporters after a working visit to the Perlis IPI at Maahad Attarbiyah Al Islamiyah (MATRI) in Beseri, near here, today.

Zulkifli added that the need for IPI registration also aligns with the increased national allocation of RM200 million for the maintenance and upgrading of religious schools. 

"Last year, the government allocated RM150 million for approximately 1,600 religious schools nationwide," he said.

He said the additional RM50 million this year will enable more of these religious institutions to receive funds for building repair works, electrical rewiring and classroom improvements to ensure a more comfortable and safe learning environment.

Meanwhile, Zulkifli said the government allocated RM157,800 last year for maintenance and facility upgrades at MATRI.

The work, which included improvements to the electrical wiring system and refurbishment of several classrooms, is now benefiting the school community.

He said this approach reflects the government's commitment, grounded in the Malaysia MADANI spirit, to ensure IPIs nationwide are comprehensively strengthened and remain competitive.

-- BERNAMA