Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Ahmed Zahir Ali has reported an increase in annual zakat collections over the past five years.
According to the Islamic Ministry, Zakat al-Fitr collections have increased from USD363,200 in 2019 to USD557,720 this year. Zakat al-Mal collections have also shown growth, with USD4.6 million in 2019, increasing to USD5.9 million in 2021 and USD5.9 million in 2022.
Speaking to PSM News, Minister Zahir stressed the government's commitment to the Zakat Nafa programme. He said the programme aims to empower individuals on the poverty register to become self-sufficient. He also said that the government seeks to uplift individuals and help improve their living conditions by providing support and resources.
Additionally, Minister Zahir said the Islamic Ministry has published an informative book detailing its achievements and plans for the years 2018-2023. He said the book aims to keep the public informed about the extent to which the ministry has achieved its mandate, particularly in enhancing religious awareness. He also said that it provides insights into the ministry's ongoing and planned programmes to foster a deeper understanding of Islamic principles among the population.
Furthermore, Minister Zahir acknowledged the collaborative efforts of scholars and ministry staff in enhancing religious awareness. He said the ministry has actively engaged with a significant number of scholars to ensure that its initiatives align with Islamic teachings and values. He also said the cooperation has contributed to the success of various programmes aimed at increasing religious awareness among the public.