PASIR MAS: Pondok institutions should be strengthened and upgraded to university level to ensure they remain relevant to the changing needs of society.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the traditional Islamic education system should not be abandoned but adapted to current developments while preserving its role in safeguarding the Muslim community's faith and character.
He said pondok institutions had long served as a stronghold for the Muslim community, particularly in protecting its faith, moral values and knowledge.
"These institutions can be transformed and improved, but we must ensure their education system progresses to a higher level, including university status.
