Nearly 10,000 Preschool Children Participate in Little Hajj Simulation Programme
KUALA LUMPUR: Masjid Wilayah Persekutuan was filled with excitement recently as nearly 10,000 six-year-old preschool children took part in the Little Hajj pilgrimage simulation programme.
The programme involved 486 kindergartens under the Little Caliphs network from 15 locations nationwide as part of efforts to introduce the fifth pillar of Islam to children from an early age.
Group Chief Executive Officer of Little Caliphs International, Roslan Nordin, said the programme not only provided theoretical exposure to the pilgrimage but also helped children understand important Islamic values embedded within the worship practice.
According to him, participants were guided to appreciate values such as discipline, patience, cooperation, compassion and obedience through an Islamic-based learning environment.
“Little Hajj is not merely an annual event but an educational and spiritual experience that helps children know Allah and understand acts of worship from a young age,” he said.
Roslan said this year’s edition was particularly meaningful as it marked the 10th anniversary of the Little Hajj programme within Little Caliphs’s early childhood education system.
He explained that the project-based learning (PBL) approach used in the programme allows children to learn about the pilgrimage in a more interactive and practical manner.
According to him, the strong response from students, teachers, parents and surrounding communities has made Little Hajj one of the organisation’s most anticipated annual programmes.
The simulation experience also provides children with the opportunity to experience the atmosphere of the haj pilgrimage through age-appropriate educational activities.
Beyond spiritual development, the programme is also aimed at strengthening children’s character building and self-confidence before they enter primary school.
With more than 20 years of experience in Islamic early childhood education, Little Caliphs remains committed to providing holistic education that balances academic, emotional and spiritual development.
Roslan added that the organisation also offers the 3M Enhancement Programme to help children strengthen their basic reading, writing and numeracy skills before entering Year One.
According to him, the programme is designed to ensure children are academically and emotionally prepared for primary school education.
He added that balanced early education plays an important role in nurturing future generations who excel not only academically but also in character and religious understanding.
-wilayah.com.my
