On August 9, 2025, the MAIWP Asnaf Career Seminar Series 3 & 4 was held at the University of Wollongong Malaysia (UOWM), attracting 61 students and their parents. The event was organized in collaboration with the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP) and aimed to provide education and career support for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Understanding the Asnaf Initiative
The term “Asnaf” refers to individuals eligible for zakat, which is a form of obligatory charitable giving in Islam that targets the impoverished and needy. The MAIWP initiative seeks to uplift the community by offering financial aid and educational resources to help these individuals attain self-sufficiency.
Seminar Highlights
The seminar began with welcome remarks and general briefings. Syufa Azuan bin Mohd Shoib, Senior Executive of National Marketing, outlined the opportunities available at UOWM. Khor Bee Hua, Head of the Academic Department at the School of Nursing & Allied Health, provided information on career paths in nursing, while Rubbie Fong Jia Yean, Program Leader of the School of Social Sciences, discussed prospects in early childhood education.
Campus Tour Experience
Attendees participated in a campus tour, which included visits to the Library, Computer Lab, Early Childhood Simulation Room, and Nursing Simulation Ward, highlighting the active student life and advanced facilities offered at UOWM. A group photo was taken to commemorate the event and symbolize the shared aspirations of the participants.
Closing Ceremony
The seminar concluded at the MAIWP Professional College (KPMAIWP) with a closing ceremony officiated by Mohd Rafie Bin Zakaria, Deputy Head of the Asnaf Development Division at MAIWP, and included remarks from Professor Dr. Hon Wei Min, Principal of UOWM, and Rohayu Binti Yusoff, Deputy CEO (Academic & Research) at KPMAIWP. During the ceremony, Mohd Rafie expressed appreciation to UOWM for its continued support in empowering asnaf students through skill development and confidence-building initiatives.
Next Steps for Participants
Following the seminar, participants will undergo interview screenings and a sponsorship shortlisting process, emphasizing the event’s effectiveness in fostering ambitions and creating new opportunities for students in need.
(Source: University of Wollongong Malaysia)
