Kuala lumpur: The Federal Territory Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP), in partnership with Yayasan Didik Negara (YDN), has announced the launch of the Supplementary Food Programme (PMT) and a Sensory Integration Room, aimed at supporting 'asnaf' students and students with special needs.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar, highlighted that these initiatives, funded by zakat (tithe) contributions totalling RM2.41 million, align with the MADANI Government's strategy to prevent student dropout from the national education system. Of the allocated funds, RM2.34 million is designated for the PMT programme across 15 secondary schools in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. The remaining RM70,000 is earmarked for constructing a Sensory Integration Room equipped with learning stimulation tools.
Speaking at the launch event held at Sekolah Kebangsaan Pendidikan Khas Kampung Baharu, Mohd Na'im explained that the PMT programme by MAIWP is distinct from the Education Ministry's Supplementary Food Plan (RMT), yet both aim to enhance students' nutrition and performance. The event was also attended by Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek and MAIWP chairman Syed Kamarulzaman Syed Kabeer.
Mohd Na'im emphasized that these efforts are part of a broader initiative to utilize zakat in a strategic manner, ensuring that underprivileged and special needs students have access to equitable and quality educational opportunities. Last year, MAIWP supported the education sector with RM103.49 million through the Education Cluster, covering 38 assistance schemes, including school uniforms, scholarships, tuition fees, and educational equipment.
Highlighting the significance of zakat, Mohd Na'im stated that this initiative demonstrates the strategic and transparent use of zakat funds to protect the educational interests of underprivileged and special needs children. He also commended the Ministry of Education for its substantial zakat contributions, which rose by 4.8 percent to RM9.7 million this year. Of this, RM1.2 million was channelled to YDN for educational programmes through the wakalah zakat system.
The collaboration between zakat resources and ministerial support facilitates the comprehensive implementation of such programmes, offering direct benefits to students in need.