Wan Azizah, who is also women, family and community development minister, said those who carried out the programme, like Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, would also be audited, especially on how funds were distributed.

“We will also conduct a review of how Permata can benefit early childhood education,” she told reporters after her first official visit to the National Population and Family Development Board here yesterday.

Wan Azizah previously said that the Permata programme would be retained although it would also be reviewed and audited. She said the programme was good as it helped in the development and welfare of children.

Permata, which was implanted in 2007, was the brainchild of Rosmah Mansor, the wife of former prime minister Najib Razak.

It comprises Permata Negara, Permata Pintar, Permata Seni, Permata Insan, Permata Remaja and Permata Kurnia.

It focuses on developing children at an early age to develop their intellectual, spiritual, emotional, physical, social and communication potential and skills.