A total of 1,170 imams would receive a total of RM11.9 million, while 341 takmir teachers would receive allowances totalling RM3.68 million, while allocations for 5,470 Kafa teachers’ allowances would total RM82.79 million.

“A special one-off RM600 payment will be continued this year for imams, bilals, siaks, and takmir teachers, with 2,605 recipients and an allocation of RM1.56 million,” he said during his speech at the 2023 Kelantan state level Ulama and Umara Madani programme.

He also said that the government’s contribution of RM232.80 per person under the Social Security Organisation’s (SOCSO) Self-Employment Injury Scheme (SPS Lindung) would be continued for imams, bilals, siaks and takmir teachers in Kelantan, involving 2,605 recipients with a total annual allocation of RM606,444.

“The government also wants Islamic agencies to be the best examples in management and governance efficiency. This is the challenge we must take up together, not only at the federal level but also at the state level.

“For example, we must stress on governance, financial management and administration of Islamic affairs.

“We don’t want to be involved in any misconduct,” he said, adding that the government, through Yayasan Taqwa has channelled aid amounting to RM2.65 million so far to the Kelantan state disaster assistance fund.

“This includes RM829,225 for the construction of new homes, RM1.53 million for repairs to existing homes, RM278,700 to repair mosques and suraus, and RM10,000 to repair educational institutions,” he added.