MAJLIS UGAMA ISLAM SINGAPURA (Financial assistance to needy students)

[Mr Speaker in the Chair]

Haji Rahmat bin Kenap asked the Minister for Social Affairs (a) how much money had been set aside by the Majlis Ugama Islam for assistance to needy students during the years 1975, 1976, 1977 and 1978 and the amount each student received or will receive; and (b) how many students attending Islam religious classes are receiving this financial aid and how much does each person get.

The Acting Minister for Social Affairs (Dr Ahmad Mattar): Mr Speaker, Sir, financial assistance given by the Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS) to needy Muslim students during the years 1975 to 1978 consist of two main categories, annual bursaries and monthly study grants. The MUIS also provides financial assistance to needy Muslim students to help them purchase textbooks, pay examination fees, transport allowances, etc.

Bursaries

The quantum of each bursary varies according to the awardee's level of education, his financial background and whether he is receiving financial assistance from other sources. Nevertheless, the recommended quantum is as follows:

Secondary level, $60 per annum;

Pre-university level, $300 per annum;

Technical and vocational training level, $500 per annum;

University undergraduate level, $1,000 per annum; and

Post-graduate level, $1,500 per annum. Although the MUIS has set aside $100,000 for bursaries this year, the awards will only be made in July 1978 after the selection committee has selected the successful candidates.

The amount of funds granted by the MUIS for bursaries during the years 1975 to 1977 were $110,300, $93,250 and $98,480 respectively. Of the 500 bursaries awarded during these years, 119 or 23.42% of the awards were given to Muslim students pursuing Muslim religious studies at pre-university, college and university levels.

Study grants and financial assistance

The MUIS also provides monthly study grants and financial assistance to needy Muslim students. Each study grant is worth $15 per month for students attending full-time classes and $5 per month for those attending pan-time classes. The amount of funds provided for study grants and miscellaneous financial assistance during the years 1975 to 1978 (January and February) were $18,132.50, $19,674, $19,114.15 and $2,900 respectively. Of the 431 study grants awarded during these years, 16 or 3.71% were for Muslim students studying in Muslim religious schools.

Total amount paid between 1975 and 1977

During the years 1975 to 1977, the MUIS provided a total of $358,950.65 to Muslim students as bursaries, study grants and other miscellaneous forms of financial assistance. $70,765 or 19.71% were for students pursuing Muslim religious studies.