BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The theme of this year’s Knowledge Convention 2025, “A Nation Cultivated with Charity”, carries a profound message: charity is not merely a personal act of devotion, but a cornerstone of nation-building.
Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah highlighted that just as fertile soil yields abundant crops, a nation nurtured with charity will prosper, bringing blessings, peace, and harmony to its people.
“Charity nurtures a caring society and diminishes selfishness, for those who give in the way of Allah the Almighty are truly investing in the welfare of the nation,” the sultan said in his speech at the opening ceremony of the Knowledge Convention 2025 on Thursday (Sept 25).
Referring to Surah al-Baqarah, verse 261, the monarch said: “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah the Almighty is like a seed which sprouts seven ears, in every ear a hundred grains. Allah the Almighty multiplies the reward for whom He wills. Allah the Almighty is All-Encompassing, All-Knowing.”
The sultan further reminded that the Prophet Muhammad declared charity does not decrease wealth but increases it. Beyond financial support, charity protects from calamities and even aids in healing, as the Prophet (pbuh) said: “Heal your sick with charity.”
He also emphasised that charity extends beyond wealth, encompassing knowledge, time, energy, and even prayers. Simple acts, such as removing an obstacle from the path or offering a smile, are also regarded as charity.
Charity is categorised into voluntary and obligatory, with zakat being the prime example of the latter.
The monarch reaffirmed the importance of proper management of zakat, calling for honesty, transparency, and fairness to ensure rightful recipients are not neglected.
The sultan also highlighted waqaf as a form of perpetual charity and noted that in today’s digital era, giving has become more accessible through online transfers, mobile apps, and digital platforms.
Various charitable funds, including the Mosque Construction Fund, Orphans’ Fund, and Palestinian Humanitarian Fund, have been established to facilitate contributions.
Recently, the Health Ministry introduced the Patient Relief Charity Fund through SMS and the MyDST application to encourage public generosity. – Borneo Bulletin/ANN
