PPZ-MAIWP calls on Muslims to pay zakat

KUALA LUMPUR: Muslims, particularly those in the business sector, have been urged to hasten their zakat (tithe) payment so that it will benefit the 'asnaf' (needy) group.
Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council's Zakat Collection Centre (PPZ-MAIWP) chief executive officer, Ahmad Shukri Yusoff said apart from 'zakat fitrah', the public could also pay income zakat, business zakat and asset zakat to seize the blessings of Ramadan.
"Muslims ought to practise the third pillar of Islam and dismiss the thinking that only the affluent need to pay zakat," he said at the press conference on 'Kempen Kongsi Keberkatan Ramadan' (Sharing of Ramadan's Blessings Campaign), here today.
He added that while the number of zakat contributors increased by 5%, many others were still unaware of the requirements and the rates, which could be obtained at the payment counter or website.
"We hope that more people will come forth to settle their zakat so that the asnaf will get their dues," he said.
Also present at the press conference was founder of multi-label fashion store Modvier Sdn Bhd, Sarah Shahnor, who shared her experience on zakat payment.
"Zakat is a religious obligation. Now that the means of its payment is at one's fingertips, it should be expedited. There is no loss in doing so. In fact, you will gain divine blessings and you will feel a lot calmer, God willing," she said.
Zakat payments can be made at 11 PPZ-MAIWP counters, www.zakat.com.my, Internet banking, Maybank autodebit and via MyEG. — Bernama