In light of allegations that impoverished Muslims are being converted, experts say zakat institutions need to be more proactive in handing out aid to the needy.
PETALING JAYA: The distribution of zakat (tithe) has come under fresh scrutiny following the Selangor Islamic Religious Authority’s (JAIS) raid on Damansara Utama Methodist Church (DUMC) two weeks ago.
Following the raid, mainstream Malay dailies such as Berita Harian and Harian Metro had carried reports alleging that Christian organisations were secretly trying to convert impoverished Muslims by offering welfare aid.
The zakat distribution system’s pitfalls have drawn criticism from prominent cleric Dr Mohd Asri Zainul Abidin for its immense red tape. Even Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin had “sounded” the institutions managing zakat distribution to be more proactive in identifying the needy to prevent them from seeking assistance from “others”.
Pitfalls in the zakat system
