SHAH ALAM, May 21 — The state government is targeting the implementation of a salary increase for Kelas al-Quran dan Fardu Ain (KAFA) teachers by next year at the latest, subject to Selangor's financial position.
State executive councillor for Islamic affairs and innovation Dr Mohammad Fahmi Ngah said the proposal is currently being refined by the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) before being brought to the State Executive Council Meeting (MMKN) for consideration in the upcoming budget.
He added that calls for salary increases have long been voiced by KAFA teachers and deserve attention, despite the significant financial implications.
“This matter is currently being detailed by JAIS, and I will bring it to the MMKN to be included in the budget. I think next year would be the most suitable time, subject to the financial strength of the state government,” Fahmi said.
Fahmi was speaking to the media during the JAIS education recognition and appreciation ceremony for 2026, in conjunction with National Teachers’ Day, at the State Secretariat Building today.
He added that the preliminary estimated cost of implementing the salary increase is around RM27 million, including nearly RM20 million involving KAFA teachers under the state scheme.
Of the approximately 7,000 religious teachers in Selangor, about 4,800 are under the state scheme, while the remainder are funded by the Malaysian Islamic Development Department.
Meanwhile, the state government is also taking into account current economic challenges, including inflationary pressures and rising prices, before finalising any decision.
“If we are able to address those issues while at the same time providing some assistance to teachers through salary increases, we will do our best to make it happen,” Fahmi said.
