KUCHING: Sarawak serves as the launch pad for the New Global Zakat and Waqf Order, leading the Global Ummah movement towards economic justice, solidarity and community empowerment worldwide.
World Zakat and Waqf Forum (WZWF) secretary-general Mohd Ghazali Md Noor said this vision is not merely an academic idea, but a strategic long-term plan to make zakat and waqf the backbone of a civilisational economy, one that is ethical, inclusive and enduring.
“We are not planning for the next decade or even the next century. We are planning for the next 500 years as I mentioned and beyond that.
“Like a mighty river that begins in these lands and flows outward to the seas, what starts here in Sarawak can nourish communities across continents, carrying with it the hope of economic justice, solidarity, and renewal for the entire world.
“And this year’s theme ‘The New Global Zakat and Waqf Order,’ challenges us to act with urgency, to align our practices with Shariah integrity, to embrace technology with courage, and to strengthen our institutions so they remain impactful in the decades to come,” he said.
He said this in his welcoming address during the World Zakat and Waqf Forum (WZWF) 14th Annual Meeting & International Conference at Hikmah Exchange Event Centre (HEEC) here Monday (Oct 13).
He added that zakat and waqf are not just financial tools but timeless institutions of mercy, justice, and unity that help uplift communities, reduce inequality, and bring hope to the world.
“The theme of this year’s conference calls for a bold reimagining of how these institutions function in the 21st century, with ‘New’ signifying renewal through digital transformation, financial innovation, and modern governance.
“’Global’ reminds us that zakat and waqf must transcend borders, mobilising collective resources for the Ummah and for humanity.
“’Order’ highlights the need for structure, integrity, and resilience, creating a system where zakat and waqf are central to achieving economic justice and social development worldwide,” he added.
The event drew delegates from 29 countries, involving more than 500 participants and 100 organisations representing Asia, Africa, Europe, America, China, and the Asia-Pacific region.
As such, Mohd Ghazali said that this forum stands at the intersection of faith, finance, and social justice.
“Over the next three days, we will explore how zakat and waqf can be strengthened through integrity, innovation, and global collaboration.
“The agenda ahead is rich, from high-level roundtables and masterclasses on digital innovation and women’s leadership, to groundbreaking launches such as the State of the Global Islamic Economy Report 2024/25,” he said.
He said that each session reflects Sarawak’s shared commitment to ensuring that zakat and waqf are not only preserved, but transformed into dynamic instruments of economic equity and human dignity.
“Let this forum be more than just an exchange of ideas. Let it be the spark for new partnerships, renewed trust, and concrete action that will echo beyond these halls, reaching villages, cities, and nations that depend on zakat and waqf for education, healthcare, enterprise and dignity,” he said.
