Anwar signs the attendance book while Abang Johari (third left) and other dignitaries look on at Masjid Jamek Sarawak on March 13, 2026. Photo credit: Sarawak Information Department (Japen)

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By Shikin Louis

KUCHING, March 13: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has approved an allocation of RM2.69 million for pondok and tahfiz schools in Sarawak.

He said the funding will support efforts to expose students in these institutions to English language learning and artificial intelligence (AI).

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“We observe the pondok institutions and allow them to continue learning according to their Manhaj Tarbiyah. We do not interfere.

“However, I ask that these pondok schools are not left out of the mainstream. They should learn languages, especially English, and study History so they are not disconnected from our own history,” he said during the Madani breaking-of-fast event held at Masjid Jamek Kuching this evening.

He added that exposure to AI will also be introduced in pondok schools, with early planning carried out together with the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC).

Through the collaboration, students will be given initial exposure to AI technologies with support from teachers and school administrators.

Also present were Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Amar Fadillah Yusof, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, and Deputy Minister in the Premier’s Department (Project Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, Kuching North City Commission and Islamic Affairs) Datuk Dr Abdul Rahman Junaidi. — DayakDaily