MERGER OF IKB AND KPBKL TO OPTIMISE ZAKAT RESOURCES – MOHD NA'IM

KUALA LUMPUR, May 13 (Bernama) -- The merger of Kolej Profesional Baitulmal Kuala Lumpur (KPBKL) and Institut Kemahiran Baitulmal (IKB), now rebranded as Kolej Profesional MAIWP (KP MAIWP), aims to optimise zakat resources under the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP).

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Mohd Na’im Mokhtar rejected claims that the merger would lead to the misuse of zakat funds.

He explained that the rebranding’s primary objective was to maximise the resources of both institutions for mutual benefit.

“Before the merger, IKB lacked a resource centre, but KPBKL had one. Now, IKB students can access KPBKL’s facilities. In contrast, KPBKL students can use the sports hall and fields at IKB, which were previously unavailable to them,” he said after the official launch of IKB’s management restructuring under KPBKL today.

Previously, a lecturer at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) Dr. Abu Hafiz Salleh Hudin, had raised concerns on the platform X, alleging that the merger could misuse zakat funds under MAIWP.

In response, Mohd Na’im emphasised that the merger would strengthen MAIWP’s reputation as a provider of a comprehensive educational ecosystem, boosting public and industry confidence in the quality of education at KP MAIWP.

The merger also aims to streamline the curriculum by combining the expertise of both institutions, ensuring programmes meet high standards and the evolving demands of the job market, while offering expanded opportunities for graduates.

“An expanded alumni network and stronger industry ties will provide graduates with better access to job opportunities, career development and further education within MAIWP’s ecosystem or with other strategic partners,” he added.

Mohd Na’im confirmed that His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, approved the merger after thorough planning and analysis in areas such as finance, infrastructure, programme offerings, student management, licensing and human resources.

“The proposal was carefully reviewed by the Board of Directors, committee meetings and MAIWP members before receiving the approval of Sultan Ibrahim,” he said.

-- BERNAMA