Sarawak’s zakat collection sees consistent growth, enabling Baitulmal to fund strategic community initiatives and support multi-religious welfare programmes.
KUCHING: The strengthening of Baitulmal Sarawak since 1985 has enabled the state’s zakat collection to record consistent year-on-year growth.
Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said this growth is largely driven by increasing contributions from Islamic commercial entities.
He said the rise in zakat collection has allowed funds to be channelled into strategic sectors benefiting the Muslim community.
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This approach also supports broader social and economic development initiatives across Sarawak.
“The approach reflects the true spirit of zakat and our commitment to safeguarding the people’s welfare,” he said.
Abang Johari stated this forms the foundation of a governance model upholding fairness and inclusivity for all.
“That is why we must establish a government that is fair to all,” he said in a speech officiating the Sri Aman Islamic Complex.
He said it is the government’s responsibility to care for both Muslim and non-Muslim communities.
“Sarawak is the only state with a Unit for Other Religions (UNIFOR), which channels assistance to non-Muslims,” he added.
Abang Johari said the approach was guided by the justice principles of the Madinah Charter.
“As a leader, I am responsible for being fair to all,” he emphasised.
He revealed the state government has channelled RM100 million to UNIFOR, with an additional RM10 million provided this year.
This brings the total allocation to RM110 million to support various initiatives, including in education.
The allocation also benefits educational institutions such as missionary and Chinese schools in Sarawak.
These schools are attended by students from diverse backgrounds, including Muslims and Bumiputera. – Bernama
