Master latest technologies, Na’im tells religious teachers

KUCHING: Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, has urged imams, takmir teachers, and KAFA teachers in Sarawak to master the latest technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI).

He said this aligns with the aspirations of the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg who wants Muslims in the state to emerge as progressive leaders.

“Muslims need to demonstrate their ability to lead in accordance with the times as envisioned by the Premier for the Murabbi, imams, takmir teachers, and KAFA teachers in Sarawak.

“So, this is one of the reasons why I, as the Minister, am participating in this tour where we can see how the state leaders convey their intentions to the religious educators,” he said.

He made these remarks after the Sarawak-level Jelajah Madani Ulama and Umara programme at Wisma SABATI here Sunday.

Na’im said with a clear understanding among the Murabbi and the administrators, especially the state leaders, Islam will flourish and develop well.

He added that Muslims and non-Muslims alike will be able to live in peace and harmony in Sarawak.

This tour, part of the Al-Falah Transformation Plan (PTF) for the period 2023-2027, aims to strengthen mosque management, religious education, and address current issues in the country.

Na’im outlined various initiatives implemented through this programme by the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) via Jakim, including monthly allowances for imams, takmir teachers, and KAFA teachers, as well as a special one-off payment of RM700 to them.

He added that other initiatives include Perkeso contributions under the Self-Employment Social Security Scheme (SKSPS) for recipients in Sarawak.

“The total allocation for these initiatives amounts to RM55,578,383 annually, benefiting thousands of recipients across the state.

“This year, the KAFA Textbook Loan Scheme allocation, channeled through Yayasan Taqwa, involves RM803,008 for Sarawak, benefiting B40 students, KAFA teachers, and KAFA supervisors,” he said.

At the event, three figures among the imams, takmir teachers, and KAFA teachers who have served the community were awarded the Tokoh Mithali award, with each recipient receiving RM1,000 in cash and a certificate of appreciation.

The recipients were Jammie Andrew (Imam category); the Mithali Takmir Teacher award went to Ibrahim Hermanto Jepon, and the Mithali KAFA Teacher award was given to Awang Suhaini Awang Omar.