LZS TARGETS TO LIFT 15,000 ASNAF OUT OF POVERTY BY 2025

SHAH ALAM, Dec 14 (Bernama) -- The Selangor Zakat Board (LZS) aims to uplift some 15,000 tithe recipients (asnaf) in the state out of poverty within three years, by the end of 2025.

LZS chief executive officer Mohd Sabirin Mohd Sarbini said the board assists approximately 4,000 asnaf annually in overcoming poverty through various initiatives, including entrepreneurship development, career programmes, skills training, and income enhancement efforts.

This includes the iKerjaya Development Programme, which helps more than 200 asnaf secure employment each year.

“This proactive approach goes beyond providing basic aid like housing and food. It focuses on empowering asnaf for long-term financial independence,” he told reporters after attending the 2024 Outstanding Asnaf Awards Ceremony, here today, which was officiated by LZS deputy chairman Tan Sri Ambrin Buang.

At the ceremony, five award categories were presented, namely the Education Award, New Converts Award, Entrepreneur Award, Career Award, and a Special Award recognising recipients' achievements in various fields.

The Special Award for 2024 Ikon Mualaf (New Converts Icon) was presented to businesswoman Shamala Nair. In addition, 23 outstanding students excelling in Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM), Sijil Tinggi Agama Malaysia (STAM), Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM), and higher education institutions received the Education Award.

According to Mohd Sabirin, LZS currently supports nearly 74,000 families classified as hardcore poor, along with over 4,000 new converts in Selangor.

He added that LZS has sponsored 7,160 students for higher education and skills training programmes, while 1,245 asnaf students are enrolled in boarding schools and institutions such as Mara Junior Science Colleges (MRSM).

Meanwhile, Shamala, 36, expressed her gratitude for LZS’ support, which she said included housing rental aid, scholarships up to the master’s level and living expenses.

“The first four years after I embraced Islam in secret were challenging, but LZS’ assistance was invaluable. Today, my husband and I manage a business supplying equipment to government and private hospitals.

“This award is not just for me but for all new converts out there. We must remain steadfast in our faith, patient and confident that Allah will provide for us,” she said.

In addition, Mohd Sabirin urged zakat contributors to fulfil their obligations by Dec 31. Payments can be made at 18 LZS branches or online at https://www.zakatselangor.com.my.

-- BERNAMA