SHAH ALAM: Stern action should be taken against those who misappropriate funds and err in carrying out their duties in zakat collection, says Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.
The Selangor Ruler said the Lembaga Zakat Selangor (LZS) has a significant responsibility in carrying the trust of the Muslim community in the state.
"Therefore, I remind all levels of zakat collection, including amils (zakat collectors), to always be honest, trustworthy, and maintain integrity while ensuring that no abuse of power occurs, as betraying this trust is a grave sin."
"I place great importance on the honesty and integrity of all LZS staff and decreed that strict action should be taken against those found to misappropriate funds and err in carrying out their duties, including bringing them to court for legal action," said His Royal Highness.
Sultan Sharafuddin said this in his address when officiating Menara Zakat Sultan Idris Shah here on Thursday (Jan 23).
Also present at the event was the Tengku Permaisuri of Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin.
The newly launched Menara Zakat Sultan Idris Shah features a drive-through counter for zakat collection and distribution, offering a convenient option for asnaf (zakat recipients) and muzzaki (zakat payers).
Self-service kiosks have also been introduced, simplifying zakat payments and assistance applications.
Tuanku said that he had witnessed remarkable innovations, advancements, and improvements in zakat management, particularly in the areas of collection and distribution of zakat, as well as the empowerment of asnaf.
"What makes me proud is that the management of zakat in Selangor has also become a model for many countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, and several others."
"They are drawn to the innovations in zakat in Selangor, which have brought significant benefits to the Muslim community," said His Royal Highness.
However, amid the excitement of rapid transformation and innovation that has been introduced, Sultan Sharafuddin also reminded LZS not to become complacent or remain satisfied with the achievements that have been made.
"The governance aspects must continually be improved from time to time, by adopting corporate management that emphasises efficiency, credibility, and forward-thinking, while adhering to syariah standards and principles," said Tuanku.
His Royal Highness said LZS must always focus on finding the best ways to assist the asnaf and build their lives independently and constructively based on syariah guidelines.
"This includes actively engaging with the field to update data and obtain current information regarding eligible zakat recipients based on household income and their financial capacity," added the Selangor Ruler.
"To identify these asnaf, I suggest utilising the services of village heads, penghulus (sub-district chiefs), and district religious officers to channel relevant information for identifying these groups."
"I also remind that those living in urban areas, including the urban poor, should not be forgotten to ensure that they fall within one of the eight categories of asnaf," said Sultan Sharafuddin.
The Selangor Sultan also reminded the public that zakat on income should be paid where individuals are currently serving and earning their livelihoods.
Sultan Sharafuddin said the Selangor Fatwa Committee issued a fatwa, which was gazetted on May 9, 2002, stating that "all Muslims residing or working in Selangor must pay zakat on their income to the Selangor Zakat."
"If the zakat collected in Selangor is distributed to other states or places, I fear that the majority Malay Muslim population in Selangor, along with over 79,000 poor asnaf families registered with LZS, would be deprived of their rights and unjustly overlooked without us realising it," said Tuanku, adding that the zakat distribution must be directed to the rightful asnaf.
In reference to the case of rehabilitating groups involved in deviant teachings, such as Global Ikhwan Services and Business Holdings Sdn. Bhd. (GISBH), the Sultan of Selangor said that zakat may be allocated to this group under the category of Ar-Riqab (those in need of liberation).
"LZS should allocate special funds for the rehabilitation of these individuals to correct and realign their beliefs," said Tuanku.