KUCHING: Tabung Baitulmal Sarawak will not be internationalised, but the state remains open to sharing its knowledge and successful approaches with others, says Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He stressed that Baitulmal is a Sarawak institution that coordinated the economic strength of the Muslim community, primarily through the collection and distribution of zakat and the management of waqf assets.
“Baitulmal is our own institution in Sarawak. Its important role is to channel zakat and also manage assets that Muslims wish to dedicate as waqf.
“What we can share with others is the success story of our Baitulmal and the approaches taken to improve the economic standing of the Muslim community.”
Abang Johari told reporters this after attending the 14th Annual Meeting and International Conference of the World Zakat and Waqf Forum at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre here on Monday (Oct 13).
He thanked the organiser for choosing Sarawak as the host, attributing it to the state’s achievements in empowering the Muslim community.
He said the conference outcome would depend on follow-up with the forum’s secretariat, but emphasised the importance of sharing ideas and recognising opportunities in the changing global economic landscape.
“This is a world forum. If each country contributes its strength, it will have a positive impact not only on Muslims but also on others.”
He cited examples such as semiconductor technology and artificial intelligence, which serve humanity as a whole and could be developed through knowledge-sharing, describing it as a form of knowledge waqf.
“Knowledge waqf is important, not only in terms of assets but also knowledge. We share knowledge with mankind.”
