Prime Minister Anwar pledges upgrades and new curricula for traditional pondok schools

During the opening of the National Turath Scholars’ Consultation, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim outlined a new initiative to enhance traditional pondok schools across Malaysia. The programme will provide funding for physical upgrades and introduce modern academic disciplines that align with current societal needs. A handful of pondok institutions will be chosen to act as pilot sites, each reflecting its unique area of expertise and religious instruction.

Anwar stressed that the government will not dictate the curriculum, leaving that to scholars, but will focus on elevating the schools' dignity and status. Officials present included Minister Dr Zulkifli Hasan and Selangor Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari, alongside international scholars from Egypt and Morocco. Further details are expected in upcoming reports.