Ipoh: Yayasan Perak today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Universiti Tun Abdul Razak (UNIRAZAK) to introduce a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Skills Diploma programme in mutawwif management. This initiative is specifically designed for tahfiz graduates in Perak, focusing on umrah and ziarah guidance.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MoU was formalized through the Akademi TVET UNIRAZAK (ATUR), which is an accredited centre under the Skills Development Department (JPK). ATUR offers Malaysian Skills Certificate (SKM) and Malaysian Skills Diploma (DKM) programmes. The Perak Islamic Religious Department (JAIPk) supports the diploma programme, aiming to strengthen tahfiz education across the state.
The statement from Yayasan Perak and UNIRAZAK noted, "This strategic partnership opens up alternative education pathways for tahfiz graduates who have not followed the mainstream academic route, equipping them with professional qualifications to contribute meaningfully to the Islamic tourism, dakwah, and ummah economy sectors."
The MoU was signed by Yayasan Perak general manager Dr Nasreen Khanum Nawab Zadah Khan and UNIRAZAK chief executive officer Amil Izham Hamzah, in the presence of Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad. Saarani also officiated the Empower Tahfiz programme, an initiative to uplift tahfiz students, at a ceremony in the Banquet Hall of the Perak Darul Ridzuan Building.
A key component of the programme is an exclusive practicum in the Holy Land, offering students real-world exposure in mutawwif operations. The practicum includes worship management, congregation logistics, syariah compliance, and on-site training with industry partners.
To reduce the initial financial burden, the Perak government has provided an advance sponsorship of RM2,500 to the first 100 students, facilitating their adaptation to the programme's requirements. The initiative will start as a pilot project with 100 participants and will be rolled out in phases for effectiveness and measurable impact.
The statement further elaborated, "Through collaboration with UNIRAZAK, via the ATUR and strategic industry partners, students will undergo industrial training, gain entrepreneurship exposure, and receive comprehensive career guidance. The programme will cover technical skills, customer service competencies, and post-graduation career preparation, to ensure graduates are industry-ready."
Amil Izham expressed pride in the collaboration with Yayasan Perak, highlighting the university's commitment as a socially responsible private institution. "Through the ATUR, we ensure that the modules offered not only comply with the standards set by the JPK, but also include industry exposure and hands-on workshops in the Holy Land," he stated. He expressed confidence that the programme will produce highly skilled mutawwif and mutawwifah.
Nasreen Khanum emphasized that the Empower Tahfiz programme broadens future opportunities for tahfiz students in Perak. "Through this initiative, they not only excel as guardians of the Quran but are also recognized as professionals in the fields of umrah and ziarah. Yayasan Perak is honored to lead this initiative and remains firmly committed to empowering tahfiz students as valuable assets to the state," she added.