SIMANGGANG: The awareness about the obligation to pay zakat among the Muslim community of Sarawak has led to a significant rise in zakat fitrah payments that have reached 96 per cent.
Baitulmal Sarawak’s General Manager, Datuk Abang Mohamad Shibi Abang Mohamad Nailie, said that this is attributed to the ease of payment methods such as salary deductions, online transactions, and the use of the Baitulmal app.
He asserted that while the collection of zakat harta (wealth zakat) remains relatively low, it has been showing positive growth over recent years.
“The introduction of the salary deduction system for zakat on income has made it easier for Muslims to fulfil their religious duties, which has contributed to the annual increase in zakat collections,” he said.
He said this during an academic podcast session entitled ‘Kewajipan Menunaikan Zakat dalam Islam’ held as part of the Iftar Kasih Ramadan programme here on Thursday.
The event, organised by the Tabung Baitulmal Sarawak Sri Aman Division, also served to raise awareness about zakat and provide assistance to those in need.
During the event, a total of 17 children from Rumah Kanak-kanak Ajibah Abol received special contributions, while 58 recipients were given fidyah assistance.
In addition to supporting individuals, several religious and educational institutions also received financial aid to support their development.
Among the beneficiaries were the Hayatul Surau Management Committee with RM3,000, Darul Hasanah Surau in Taman Harmoni with RM4,900, Nahdatul Islam Mosque with RM1,500, the Sarawak Women’s Association (PPWS) with RM1,000, and the Sri Aman District Education Office with RM3,600.
