Kuala lumpur: A total of 100 Muslim asnaf students from Cambodia have been awarded full scholarships worth RM4.5 million by the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP) to continue their studies at three institutions in Malaysia. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar, announced that the scholarships aim to support Cambodian Muslim students facing financial constraints in pursuing higher education.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, out of the 100 students, 30 will study at the MAIWP Baitulmal Professional College, 20 at the MAIWP International University College (UCMI), and 50 at Dar Al-Hikmah College in Sungai Ramal. The students will pursue various fields, including Islamic studies. This initiative is part of MAIWP's effort to assist the minority Muslim community in Cambodia by providing them with educational opportunities.

Minister Mohd Na'im emphasized that education is crucial for improving the status and position of Muslims globally. He highlighted the importance of cross-border education for a sustainable future, aligning with this year's ASEAN theme focusing on Inclusion and Sustainability. The announcement was made during the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MAIWP and the Cambodian Islamic Development Foundation at the Batu Muda Campus.

The MoU signing was attended by MAIWP's acting chief executive officer, Datuk Mohd Nizam Yahya, and the Cambodian Islamic Development Foundation's deputy chairman and member of the Cambodian Parliament, Rofy Othsman. Mohd Na'im expressed confidence that this collaboration will serve as a model for regional cooperation, enhancing the development of the ummah through education.

During the event, the Cambodian delegation received certificates of appreciation for the Cambodian International Student Scholarship Assistance, along with scholarship fund cheques and commemorative plaques from MAIWP.