PPZ-MAIWP FACES CHALLENGE AS COLLECTIONS FALL SHORT OF MEETING ASNAF, URBAN POOR NEEDS

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 24 (Bernama) --  The Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council-Zakat Collection Centre (PPZ-MAIWP) is facing significant challenges this year as tithe collections have not been enough to meet the growing needs of the urban poor and the asnaf in the Federal Territories.

Its chief executive officer, Datuk Abdul Hakim Amir Osman, said a total of RM1.02 billion has been distributed to assist those in need, while zakat collection has only reached RM909.99 million.

“As of today we have distributed RM1.02 billion to help the asnaf (eligible tithe recipients), which is higher than the amount collected. We assist 34,000 families every month, so the funds we collect are still insufficient.

"We need to encourage more Muslims to fulfill their zakat obligations to bridge the gap," he told Bernama recently. 

He added that zakat plays a vital role in the Islamic economic system, helping to address urban poverty, particularly in Kuala Lumpur. 

"Zakat can be a powerful tool in reducing income inequality and providing relief to those in need," he said.

He also highlighted that zakat distribution through official institutions is fairer, more comprehensive, and focused on meeting basic needs such as housing, healthcare, education, and employment, which ultimately helps lift the poor out of poverty and improve their quality of life.

As such, he urged those who meet the necessary requirements to fulfill their zakat obligations, reminding them that part of their wealth belongs to the asnaf.

With less than two weeks remaining in the year, Abdul Hakim encouraged Muslims who have not yet paid their zakat to do so by Dec 31 to be in the running for a chance to win an Umrah trip.

"PPZ-MAIWP counters will remain open every day, including public holidays, from Dec 23 to 31, with extended hours until 9.00 pm. Alternatively, zakat payments can also be made via the website www.zakat.com.my, the MyZakat app, or internet banking," he added.

 -- BERNAMA