LABUAN, Nov 24 (Bernama) -- The Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP) collected over RM1 billion in zakat across the federal territories in 2023, marking an 11 per cent increase compared to 2022.
MAIWP chairman Syed Kamarulzaman Syed Kabeer said the collections from January to November this year have exceeded RM700,000.
However, he said zakat distribution until November this year amounted to nearly RM880,000, surpassing collections.
“This is a remarkable achievement, and in Labuan alone, MAIWP disbursed RM68.6 million in aid as of October,” he said at the closing of the Labuan-level 50th Anniversary MAIWP Carnival at the Financial Park Convention Hall here today.
He said MAIWP has implemented various programmes and initiatives to support underprivileged communities in Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya and Labuan.
Syed Kamarulzaman said key efforts include equipping children from asnaf (zakat-eligible households) with diplomas, degrees and vocational skills to secure a brighter future for them.
"Education and skills are transformative tools that can change the lives of these children for the better, insyaAllah," he said.
He said in addition to tuition fees and allowances, MAIWP introduced the Gerobok Rezeki Universiti programme, allocating RM1 million to ensure university students have access to essential food supplies.
Syed Kamarulzaman said RM3.4 million from zakat funds has been allocated for the Laptop Assistance Scheme, benefiting 110 students in Labuan.
He said the initiative, valued at RM385,330 for Labuan, helps ease the financial burden on parents unable to provide necessary learning tools.
“These efforts provide much-needed relief to families and support students in their academic journey,” Syed Kamarulzaman said.
He said MAIWP is also focusing on entrepreneurial development to help asnaf households transition out of poverty and become zakat contributors themselves.
On the 50th Anniversary Carnival here, he said the two-day event featured a wide range of activities, including a mass wedding (Walimatul Urus Perdana), the MAIWP Fun Walk, nine-a-side football tournaments and Rahmah sales booths.
Other highlights included exhibitions, a junior action research colloquium, and community-centred events like Malam Bersama MAIWP & PPZ.
-- BERNAMA
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