Na Im Denies Closure Of Unregistered Pondok Schools

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The religious affairs minister says the allegation is false, malicious and defamatory.
Religious affairs minister Na’im Mokhtar said the authorities were working to improve the registration and accreditation systems for Islamic educational institutions to safeguard students’ welfare, safety, and health. (Bernama pic)KUALA LUMPUR: Religious affairs minister Na’im Mokhtar has denied claims circulating on social media alleging that the federal government or departments under his purview have ordered the closure of unregistered pondok schools in Kelantan and Kedah
He said no such directive had been issued and described the allegation as false, malicious, and defamatory.
“It is evident that this act of immorality and slander is being spread without citing any authentic or official source.
“Spreading baseless accusations, especially those involving sensitive issues such as religious institutions, is irresponsible and can threaten societal harmony,” he said in a Facebook post tonight.
Na’im said the federal government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, had consistently provided full support to Islamic educational institutions, including pondok schools, madrasahs, and tahfiz centres, as key pillars of the Malaysia Madani development framework.
He said religious authorities were working to improve the registration and accreditation systems for Islamic educational institutions to safeguard students’ welfare, safety, and health while ensuring the quality of religious education remains well-organised and recognised.
“I urge everyone not to spread false news or slander that could tarnish the image of Islamic institutions and cause public confusion.
“Any verified information regarding official policies or decisions will be communicated through the official channels of the Prime Minister’s Department (religious affairs), the Islamic development department (Jakim), and relevant agencies.
“Let us all uphold the dignity of pondok institutions and Islamic education, and reject any form of slander that could divide the ummah,” he said. - FMT

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