Zakat Distribution and Programme for Sustaining Muallaf Belief and Thought

Abstract

Zakat is one of the pillars of Islam that emphasises the socio-economic development. Any discussion on
zakat in the context of worship cannot be disconnected from the socio-economic factor, especially in
aiding the underprivileged. The primary purpose of zakat is to redistribute wealth of the society among
the poor. Zakat is not purely welfare-oriented that relies on the contribution of the giver but an obligation
that must be carried out to qualified recipients. Therefore, it is pertinent that the management of zakat is
made efficient to ensure that the rights of the recipients and the society, in general, will not be put in
jeopardy. The question is then raised regarding the type of zakat distribution or programmes pertaining to
the asnaf Muallaf. The objective of this article is to explore zakat distribution programmes for sustaining
muallaf belief (Tauhid) and thoughts (Iman). The methodology of this article is based on qualitative
research through document analysis and interview with zakat officer. This article has revealed that a huge
amount had been allocated for the development of asnaf Muallaf. It is conclude that, State Islamic
Religious Council needs to continuously improve a comprehensive programmes that focus on sustaining
the Muallaf belief (Tauhid) and thoughts (Iman).