Government to Upgrade 'Pondok' Institutions with Modern Technology and AI
The Malaysian government is set to restore and enhance the nation's "pondok" institutions to keep them vital centers for faith, morals, and character within the Muslim community, adapting them to current needs. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced this effort during the opening of the 65th International Al-Quran Recital and Memorisation Competition (MTHQA) held at the Kuala Lumpur World Trade Centre (WTCKL).
This initiative is a collaboration between the Ministry of Finance and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM). It targets religious schools and pondok institutions currently in poor condition, aiming to upgrade them with new facilities and advanced technologies.
Integrating Technology and AI in Religious Education
Prime Minister Anwar emphasized the incorporation of information technology, digitalisation, and artificial intelligence to keep these institutions effective in defending the faith and strengthening the community's morals and character.
"We want to add new technology, including information technology, digitalisation, and artificial intelligence, so that this bulwark remains the strongest one to defend the faith, morals, and character of the Ummah," he said.
This move reflects the government's commitment to modernising traditional religious education while preserving its core values. It also aligns with the broader efforts to leverage AI and digital tools in public service sectors. For those in government interested in AI applications, resources like Complete AI Training's courses provide practical insights into AI integration.
Historical Significance of Pondok Institutions
Prime Minister Anwar highlighted the historical role of pondok institutions as steadfast defenders of Muslim identity, especially during the colonial period when other national systems were compromised.
He stated that while political, economic, and educational systems adapted to colonial rule, pondok schools served as the last bastion preserving the community’s faith and values.
Mushaf Ummah Program Launch
Anwar also announced the upcoming launch of the Mushaf Ummah Program on August 8. This program aims to enhance the global reach of the Quran and Islamic teachings through official translations into 30 languages.
The Prime Minister shared that during his international visits, including countries like Peru, Brazil, France, and Cambodia, distributing the Quran with translations in local languages has been an effective way to spread Islamic knowledge.
65th International Al-Quran Recital and Memorisation Competition
The MTHQA event, themed "Developing a MADANI Ummah," runs from August 2 to 9, 2025, and features 71 participants from 49 countries. Malaysia is represented by four contestants in both recital and memorisation categories.
- Recital category: Aiman Ridhwan Mohamad Ramlan (Perak) and Wan Sofea Aini Wan Mohd Zahidi (Terengganu)
- Memorisation category: Muhammad Adib Ahmad Rozaini (Perak) and Putri Auni Khadijah Mohd Hanif (Kelantan)
Cash prizes and jewelry sponsored by the Malaysian Islamic Economic Development Foundation (YaPEIM) will be awarded to winners:
- First place: RM40,000
- Second place: RM30,000
- Third place: RM20,000
This initiative not only encourages religious education but also recognizes excellence in Quranic knowledge at an international level.
Your membership also unlocks:
