KOTA BHARU, Feb 23 (Bernama) -- The Kelantan Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIK) has awarded its Special Tengku Anis Scholarship to three Orang Asli students who have successfully gained admission into Fully Residential Schools (SBP).
MAIK secretary Muhamad Rasani Ramli said the scholarship was awarded to Elfira Nur Zulhaiza Emmie, Muhammad Putra Faizul Ab Ghani and Nur Muhammad Al Khawarizmi Rosmi, all aged 13.
He said the three students, who have been admitted to Sekolah Menengah Sains Tengku Muhammad Faris Petra, will receive RM450 per month, credited directly to them until they complete their studies in Form Five.
“This is the first time we are awarding scholarships to Orang Asli students. Previously, the scholarship was targeted for asnaf students either through the State Education Department (JPN) or Yayasan Islam Kelantan.
“Through this scholarship, they will receive RM450 monthly. Upon completing Form Five, MAIK will consider providing other suitable assistance to enable them to further their studies,” he said at Dewan Sultan Muhammad V, Sekolah Menengah Sains Tengku Muhammad Faris Petra today.
Meanwhile, Kelantan Education Department director Siti Norina Muhamad said so far, five Orang Asli students have been offered places at SBPs, three at Sekolah Menengah Sains Tengku Muhammad Faris Petra, and two at Sekolah Menengah Sains Gua Musang.
She said the department aims to double the number of Orang Asli students placed in SBP next year, with special attention to be given by teachers to ensure their performance matches that of other students.
Siti Norina added that the State Education Department is also collaborating with several agencies, including MAIK, to ensure the students’ welfare is well taken care of.
-- BERNAMA
