The Prime Minister's wife Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor today received the ''Children''s Innovation Development Icon'' exemplary award (Tokoh Inovasi Pembangunan Kanak-kanak) from the Cheras Education Foundation (YPC) for her contribution and services as the founder and patron of the Permata programme.

The award was presented to her by YPC chairman Datuk Seri Syed Ali Al-Habshee in conjunction with 2017 Smart Teachers Awards organised by the foundation here today.

YPC also donated RM100,000 to Yayasan Permata.

According to YPC, Rosmah received the award based on her role, services and contributions to the country among them in building child capabilities, eliciting creativity, stimulating the minds and boosting social skills of children under the age of four years through the National Permata Programme.

It is also in recognition of her contribution to autistic children and emphasising quality care for them through Permata Kurnia besides guiding these students with exceptional intelligence to excel through Permata Pintar.

The award is also in appreciation of Rosmah''s role in polishing children''s potential in the Arts besides initiatives to increase public awareness to combat child sexual crimes.

At today's event, Rosmah presented the Bestari Teacher Award to 37 school teachers in the Cheras and Kuala Lumpur parliamentary constituencies. They received cash, smartphones and certificates of appreciation.

In her speech, Rosmah described the Bestari Teacher Award by YPC created since 2001 as a recognition for the sacrifices made by teachers.

"I am delighted with this initiative which shows YPC's determination and commitment to assist the government to empower the teaching profession and develop the country''s education sector," she said.

Also presented were the Special Award for Educational Development, Special Award for School''s Parent-Teacher Association, Special Award for Headmaster''s Leadership and Special Award for Principal''s Leadership

The Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur''s Education Department director Datuk Foziah Buang received the Special YPC Award.

-- BERNAMA