Profiling the Demographic and Financial Readiness of Parents and Guardians of Tahfiz Graduates in Malaysia’s Fast Track Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) Programme

This study profiles the demographic characteristics and financial readiness of parents and guardians whose children, graduates of tahfiz schools, are enrolled in Malaysia’s Fast Track Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) programme. Adopting a quantitative descriptive survey design, data were collected from 139 respondents through structured questionnaires distributed via official school WhatsApp groups. Stratified random sampling ensured representation across different income categories. Findings reveal that most respondents are middle-aged, primarily based in Selangor, and concentrated in the lower- to middle-income brackets. A significant proportion reported needing financial assistance, with only moderate awareness of available sponsorship opportunities. Many perceived the programme fees as burdensome compared to previous tahfiz school costs. The results highlight the need for flexible payment schemes, targeted subsidies, and improved communication strategies to enhance sponsorship awareness. These measures are essential to sustaining enrolment and ensuring that tahfiz graduates can obtain formal academic qualifications without undue financial hardship.