SUNGAI BESAR: The name of Sekolah Menengah Agama (SMKA) Sabak Bernam, here, was officially changed today to SMKA Tun Hajah Rahah.
This was announced by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi during an Iftar Perdana event with Sabak Bernam teachers and education department officials at the school this evening.
Zahid said the new name suits the boarding religious school's status as an excellent cluster school.
Tun Hajah Rahah is the name of prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's mother Tun Rahah Noah.
"Initially, I had received several suggestions for the new name for this school.
"Alhamdulillah, during the cabinet meeting on Wednesday, I had met the prime minister to ask for his permission and suggested that this school be renamed SMKA Tun Hajah Rahah.
"Today, I announce to all of you that the name of SMKA Sabak Bernam is now officially changed to SMKA Tun Hajah Rahah," Zahid said during his speech at the event, which was met with thunderous applause from the audience.
Also present were Education Minister Datuk Seri Mahdzir Khalid, Selangor BN chairman Tan Sri Noh Omar and Education Department director-general Tan Sri Dr Khair Mohamad Yusof.
Zahid also announced that the federal government had approved a budget for the school to repaint its six buildings, including classrooms, surau and multipurpose hall.
"I have also been asked by the principal if the school can get its allocation application for a proper playing field approved.
"InshaAllah, I will see to it," he said.
Zahid said the Federal government has also approved an allocation to build a new building for the Sabak Bernam Education Department at its present land area.
Zahid also touched on his closeness to the welfare of religious schools, saying that he was a product of one.
Speaking on his experience, Zahid said religious school grads also have what it takes to excel in any field they venture into.
He said Islamic studies students have the capability to compete with other students, provided that they strive for excellence with good intentions.