KUCHING: As Muslims across Malaysia fulfil their annual religious obligations, the payment of zakat remains an important pillar of faith and social responsibility.
With digital services becoming increasingly accessible, many Zakat payers now face a choice between online platforms and traditional physical counters when paying their zakat.
To better understand public sentiment, Sarawak Tribune spoke to Muslims, about whether they have paid their zakat this year, how they chose to do so, and the reasons behind their preferences.
Entrepreneur Hazizan Abd Muin, 37, who opted to pay online using a mobile banking app described his experience as being both exciting and meaningful.
“I am used to doing everything on my phone, so online felt natural,” he explained.
He admitted that he initially felt unsure about the calculation and consulted the official zakat website for guidance.
“There are calculators available, which made it easier for me to understand how much I needed to pay.”
For Hazizan, the digital option also represents accessibility.
“Online payment ensures we can still fulfil our obligation without difficulty.”
As for civil servant Mohd Nazrul Sahya, 27, online payment came as a natural choice.
He said he paid his zakat through an official online portal linked to Tabung Baitulmal Sarawak.
“Everything I do is digital, bills, investments, even donations,” he said with a smile.
Nazrul highlighted transparency and tracking as key reasons for his preference.
“I like that I can keep a record of my email and banking history. It is easier for tax documentation as well.”
He believes digital platforms encourage more consistent compliance among younger Muslims.
“When it is just a few clicks away, there is no excuse to delay. Technology actually helps us fulfil our religious duties more responsibly.”
Mohd Mulok Meran, a 43-year-old security guard said that he paid his zakat earlier this month by way of online transfer through his bank’s mobile application.
“My schedule is packed with work and family responsibilities. Paying online saves me time,” he said.
He explained that he accessed the official zakat payment channel provided by Tabung Baitulmal Sarawak and completed the transaction within minutes.
“The system is straightforward, and I receive a digital receipt instantly. It is secure and efficient.”
However, he acknowledged that during Ramadan he sometimes visits physical counters for zakat fitrah payments with his children.
“It becomes a learning experience for them to see the process physically,” he noted.
Retiree Khushiri Salleh, 66, meanwhile said he has already paid his zakat for the year and continues to prefer visiting a physical counter.
“For me, paying zakat is not just a transaction, it is an act of worship,” he said.
He explained that he usually goes directly to the zakat counter at the mosque or the official collection centre managed by Tabung Baitulmal Sarawak.
“I feel more confident when I receive a printed receipt immediately and can speak directly to the officer if I have questions about calculation,” he added.
Khushiri admitted that while his children often encourage him to use online banking or apps, he is more comfortable with face-to-face interaction.
“At my age, I prefer the traditional way. It feels more certain and meaningful.”
