(From left) Chong, Shanker, Syed Kamarulzaman, Na’im, Medan, Zabidi, Lau and Prof Firdaus at the MAIWP and UOWM strategic meeting.
THE Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP) has announced a new scholarship programme for asnaf and underprivileged students, following a strategic meeting with University of Wollongong Malaysia (UOWM).
Held in the presence of Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, the meeting highlighted MAIWP and UOWM’s shared commitment to empowering youths through education.
The scholarship offers full funding for students from low-income families, focusing on high-demand fields like nursing and early childhood education (ECE).
Na’im praised the initiative, saying, “Once given the opportunity, these children can excel and lift themselves out of poverty.
“Supporting these students is a humanistic and holistic step toward nation-building. I welcome UOWM’s commitment and thank them for this meaningful initiative,” said Na’im.
Funded through zakat contributions and administered in partnership with MAIWP, the programme also includes mentorship, career preparation, and soft skills training to better equip students for the workforce.
UOWM board of governors chairperson Datuk Mohammad Medan Abdullah reaffirmed the university’s support for national development goals.
“Graduates will gain qualifications that lead to stable, in- demand careers,” he said.
“In nursing alone, the World Health Organisation projects a global shortage of 4.5 million professionals by 2030.
“This programme helps bridge that gap while giving deserving youths a brighter future,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of ECE, noting that educators shape the minds and values of future generations.
“This initiative not only uplifts students but also empowers families and communities,” he added.
Also present were MAIWP chairman Syed Kamarulzaman Syed Kabeer, Malaysian Islamic Economic Development Foundation chief executive officer Zabidi Nasan, Kolej Profesional MAIWP chief executive officer Prof Mohammad Firdaus Low, UOWM deputy vice-chancellor (administration) Shanker Sathivellu, UOWM KDU College principal Gabriel Lau Chi Wen and UOWM chief executive officer’s office head Chong Weng Lian.
The meeting concluded with plans to expand the programme, ensuring broader access to higher education for underprivileged youth across Malaysia.
