JOHOR BARU: The Johor Islamic Religious Council (MAINJ) is set to distribute approximately 34,000 sets of school uniforms to asnaf group students, aligning with the new 2024 school semester.
Haffie Awab, Assistant Director of Asnaf Development at MAINJ, announced that this initiative aims to support the less fortunate students throughout the state. The distribution will commence in stages before the new school session begins, ensuring timely assistance for the beneficiaries.
In the initial phase, MAINJ plans to distribute 10,000 sets of religious school uniforms, benefiting around 17,000 students. Eventually, each student will receive two sets of uniforms once they are ready. This targeted approach underlines MAINJ's commitment to supporting religious education.
Rafidah Kenit, an instructor at the MAINJ sewing centre, highlighted the community-driven aspect of this programme. To produce uniforms for 20 students, they use 10 pieces of fabric, with all sewing done by tailors from the asnaf group. This not only aids students but also provides employment and skill development for the tailors involved.
Every stage of uniform production, from sewing to packaging, is carried out at the MAINJ sewing centre. This ensures quality control and fosters a sense of community and collaboration among those involved.
The programme, in cooperation with Waqaf An-Nur, goes beyond mere charity. It offers asnaf individuals, particularly those working at the sewing centre, a chance to earn income and develop valuable skills. By engaging them in the production of school uniforms, MAINJ is helping to empower this group economically and socially.