Malaysia to increase support for Islamic religious education

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for the strengthening of Islamic religious education, including traditional ‘pontok’ schools, to better serve younger generations. Speaking in Kuala Lumpur, Anwar emphasized that national development should not be measured solely by economic or material progress, but should also be guided by faith, moral character, and a sense of responsibility.

He highlighted the historical role of Islamic institutions in preserving religious knowledge and identity throughout Malaysia's history, including the colonial period. The government's decision to direct state resources toward these religious educational institutions has raised concerns regarding a shift toward religious conservatism and the potential undermining of the state's secular character.