Scam syndicates have manipulated 2,000 asnaf into providing bank accounts for fraud, leading to blacklisted accounts and disrupted zakat aid payments.
KUALA LANGAT: Scam syndicates have exploited approximately 2,000 asnaf, or tithe recipients, in Selangor by using them as money mules.
Lembaga Zakat Selangor chief executive officer Mohd Khaizir Shahari said internal checks and bank information revealed these recipients were blacklisted, disrupting their monthly aid.
“They are vulnerable to manipulation because of financial hardship,” he told reporters.
He said some recipients accepted as little as RM100 a month to hand over identity cards and open bank accounts for syndicates.
Many only realise when their monthly aid payment is declined due to a blacklisted account.
Mohd Khaizir said Zakat Selangor detected the issue after banks flagged accounts involved in financial fraud.
The organisation is now considering alternative payment methods for affected recipients to ensure aid delivery continues.
“Being blacklisted does not bar recipients from receiving zakat,” he clarified.
He said alternative methods are needed to comply with banking regulations while providing support.
Zakat Selangor will boost financial literacy and anti-scam campaigns to protect recipients.
It will also strengthen cooperation with banks and relevant agencies.
Earlier, Mohd Khaizir announced the distribution of Ramadan and Aidilfitri aid.
The programme will benefit over 78,000 heads of asnaf households with nearly RM36 million in aid.
Distribution begins on February 19, the first day of Ramadan, across the state.
Meanwhile, Zakat Selangor aims for a 5% increase in zakat fitrah collections this year.
This follows collections of RM41 million in 2024 and RM43 million in 2025.
The effort is supported by improved digital systems and a stronger network of mosque staff.
The organisation is deploying 2,400 assistant collectors across 460 mosques and surau.
Mobile apps are being fully utilised in five districts to boost collection efficiency.
These districts are Kuala Selangor, Klang, Petaling, Hulu Langat, and Gombak.
Other areas will use a hybrid system for collections.
All 19 Zakat Selangor branches will open daily throughout Ramadan, including public holidays.
This is to handle higher turnout and expand service access for the public.
