Only 8.4pct of religious schools in Perak have planning permission: MB

Only 8.4pct of religious schools in Perak have planning permission: MB

Published: Jul 11, 2025 6:30 AM
Updated: 8:30 AM


Only 85 out of 1,006 religious education institutions in Perak or 8.4 percent, have obtained planning permission from local authorities.

Perak Menteri Besar Saarani Mohamad said the religious institutions include Tadika Islam Perak, Sekolah Rendah Agama Rakyat, Sekolah Menengah Agama Rakyat, private religious schools, tahfiz centres, and Akademi Insan Muda Ar-Ridzuan (Aiman).

“As such, I hope the responsible parties, stakeholders, especially institution administrators and technical agencies, can sit together to coordinate a comprehensive solution to avoid any untoward incidents in the future,” he said.

He said this during the opening of the Seminar on Sustainable Integrity in Religious Education Institution Development held in Ipoh today.

Later, in a press conference, Saarani said the state government has never restricted the growth of religious education institutions, but warned that developments carried out without proper procedures could pose serious risks to students and residents of the institutions.

He said reports received indicated that most institutions were built without formal plans or planning approval to reduce costs and without consulting the Fire and Rescue Department or other technical agencies.

“They start by putting up four posts, then add structures as more students enrol. In the end, safety is compromised.

“Some do their own wiring without certified electricians, even tapping from light conductors. This is extremely dangerous,” he also said.

At the same time, Saarani added that the state government will continue to enhance policies on the development of educational institutions through the Perak Sejahtera 2030 Plan, which prioritises the strengthening of social institutions under its social well-being pillar.

- Bernama