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KUALA LUMPUR, 5 & 6 NOVEMBER 2025 — PPZ-MAIWP Supports the Waqf Dialogue 2025 (Muzakarah Waqaf 1.0) Pusat Pungutan Zakat, Majlis Agama Islam Wilayah Persekutuan (PPZ-MAIWP) is proud to be a supporting partner of the Muzakarah Waqaf 1.0 (Waqf Dialogue 2025) organised by Waqaf An-Nur Corporation Berhad, held on 5 & 6 November 2025 at Royale Chulan Kuala Lumpur.   MUZAKARAH WAQAF 1.0 – “Waqf Transformation: Ijtihad & Innovation” Carrying the theme “Waqf Transformation: Ijtihad & Innovation”, this event brings together renowned scholars, industry experts, and key stakeholders to discuss the strategic direction of waqf development in Malaysia. The Closing ceremony was officiated by YAB Datuk Amar Haji Fadillah Haji Yusof, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia. In this event also, Tuan Haji Bukhari Abd Rahman, Chief Executive Officer of Waqaf An-Nur, presented 11 resolutions formulated from five insightful discussion sessions throughout the event. The ceremony also featured the launch of the 25 Years of Waqaf An-Nur Coffee Table Book, which chronicles the organisation’s journey and achievements in advancing Malaysia’s corporate waqf agenda over the past two and a half decades. As a strategic partner in advancing Islamic social finance, PPZ-MAIWP remains committed to supporting initiatives that strengthen the synergy between zakat and waqf for the benefit of the ummah. The panel presentation slides can be found at the following link: https://wd.waqafannur.com.my/muat-turun-fail-muzakarah/ #PPZMAIWP #WaqfDialogue2025 #MuzakarahWaqaf #WakafAnNur #IslamicSocialFinance #WaqfTransformation #IjtihadAndInnovation #AkademiZakat #EmpoweringUmmah

PUTRAJAYA, 28 October 2025 — The Mufti of Federal Territory’s Office (JMWP) received a courtesy visit from a delegation of Pusat Pungutan Zakat, Majlis Agama Islam Wilayah Persekutuan (PPZ-MAIWP), led by Mr. Azlan Shaari, General Manager of Human Resources. Strengthening Strategic Collaboration The visit aimed to further strengthen the strategic collaboration between PPZ-MAIWP and JMWP, particularly in the empowerment of zakat management that remains relevant to contemporary needs and the realities of urban communities. Both institutions share a common vision of enhancing the efficiency, governance, and social impact of zakat administration. The meeting was chaired by Sahibus Samahah Tuan Ahmad Fauwaz bin Fadzil, the Mufti of the Federal Territory, who emphasised the importance of fostering strong ties between fatwa institutions and zakat collection centres. This connection, he noted, is vital for ongoing knowledge exchange, research cooperation, and evidence-based fatwa formulation that supports the development of Islamic social finance. Towards a Shared Vision under Malaysia MADANI This collaborative engagement is expected to enhance the synergy between both institutions in strengthening zakat management based on Maqasid Syariah. It also aspires to contribute meaningfully to the socio-economic development of the ummah and the well-being of the community, aligning with the broader aspirations of Malaysia MADANI. #AkademiZakat #AZKA #ZakatResearch #PPZMAIWP #MuftiWilayah #IslamicSocialFinance #MaqasidSyariah #MalaysiaMADANI #KnowledgePartnership #ZakatGovernance

“INCEIF University and UKM Conduct Research Visit to PPZ-MAIWP on Zakat, Waqf, and Digitalisation of Islamic Social Finance” 27 October 2025 – Pusat Pungutan Zakat (PPZ-MAIWP) welcomed a research delegation from INCEIF University and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), led by Prof. Dr. Amir bin Shaharuddin, Head Researcher at the Centre of Excellence for Islamic Social Finance, ISRA Institute, INCEIF University. The visit aimed to gather insights on zakat and waqf management, development, and digital transformation practices within Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan. It forms part of their research project titled “Transforming Lives: A Strategic Blueprint for Islamic Social Finance in Malaysia.” During the session, both sides exchanged ideas on how digital innovation and data-driven approaches can strengthen the impact of Islamic social finance. PPZ-MAIWP welcomes this engagement as an important step towards enhancing the Islamic social finance ecosystem and fostering continued collaboration between academia and zakat management institutions.

PPZ-MAIWP Strengthens Global Leadership in Zakat and Waqf Transformation Kuching, Sarawak, 15 October 2025 — Pusat Pungutan Zakat – Majlis Agama Islam Wilayah Persekutuan (PPZ-MAIWP) is honoured to be part of a historic milestone in shaping The New Global Zakat and Waqf Order through its active participation in the 14th World Zakat and Waqf Forum (WZWF) held in Kuching, Sarawak. The forum’s closing ceremony was officiated by the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), YB Dato’ Setia Dr. Mohd Na’im Mokhtar, who also presented tokens of appreciation to the international delegates. The PPZ-MAIWP delegation was led by Tuan Haji Azrin Dato’ Haji Abdul Manan, Deputy Chief Executive Officer (Management). During the forum, PPZ-MAIWP was entrusted to deliver a keynote paper titled: “Zakat and Waqf Transformed: Shariah Integrity, Digital Innovation and the Quantum Leap in Social Finance – Do It Now or Be Disrupted,”presented by Dr. Muhsin Nor Paizin, Senior Manager of Akademi Zakat PPZ-MAIWP (AZKA). Core Pillars In his presentation, Dr. Muhsin emphasised that the transformation of zakat and waqf systems must be firmly rooted in three core pillars: Shariah integrity, digital innovation, and the courage to take a quantum leap in social finance. He urged global zakat and waqf institutions to act decisively and immediately—not to wait for change, but to lead it. This message resonates strongly with the Kuching Declaration 2025, a symbol of global commitment to fortify zakat and waqf as key instruments of social justice and sustainable development for the ummah. Our Commitment Beyond participation, this moment marks a declaration of Malaysia’s leadership position—with PPZ-MAIWP reaffirming its readiness to be at the forefront of global discourse in advancing professional and innovative zakat and waqf management. Malaysia’s commitment to international collaboration was further solidified when the country was appointed as the Permanent Secretariat of the World Zakat and Waqf Forum (WZWF). This recognition underscores Malaysia’s growing role as a global reference hub in Islamic social finance—anchored on the principles of justice (adl), excellence (ihsan), and humanity (insaniyyah).

Akademi Zakat (AZKA-PPZ) is pleased to announce the publication of the latest issue of the AZKA International Journal of Zakat & Social Finance (AZJAF), Vol. 6, No. 2 (2025). As the official journal dedicated to zakat and Islamic social finance research, AZJAF continues to provide a platform for academics, researchers, and practitioners to share innovative insights and scholarly contributions that strengthen the field. A Platform for Knowledge and Collaboration We are honored to see AZJAF grow steadily in reputation, readership, and scholarly impact. This achievement reflects the hard work of our authors, reviewers, and editorial team, as well as the support of institutions and readers worldwide who continue to engage with zakat and Islamic social finance scholarship. AZJAF is indexed and abstracted by multiple platforms including MyCite, MyJurnal, Google Scholar, WorldCat, Crossref, CiteFactor, Scilit, ACADEMIA, and DRJI, ensuring that contributions reach a broad and diverse global audience. Highlights of This Issue The current volume brings together 10 thought-provoking articles, offering a wide spectrum of perspectives from different regions and contexts: The Spiritual, Social, and Economic Impacts of Zakat on Its Payers: A Qualitative Study in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka Exploring Waqf Management Models in Turkey: Implementation Potential and Adaptation Barriers in Indonesia Zakat Management for Bengkalis Economic Transformation: A Comprehensive Empowerment Strategy Tax–Zakat Relationship in Islamic Law Exploring Zakat Distribution Methods and Payoffs Through Scoping Reviews Driving Zakat Payment Decision in the Indonesian Zakat Institution: The Role of Shariah Audit, Accountability and Trust A New Analytical Framework of Saudi’s Economic Diversification Through a Systemic Approach to Zakatable Assets Traditional Approaches to Zakat Fund Management in Bangladesh: An Analysis of Mechanisms, Constraints, and Countermeasures Digital Zakat Management in Muslim Countries: A Comparative Analysis Through a Literature-Based Lens Efficiency Analysis of Indonesian Zakat Institutions at the Provincial Level These studies collectively enrich our understanding of zakat and waqf management, explore new frameworks for economic transformation, and highlight the intersections of Islamic law, digital innovation, and institutional efficiency. Access the Journal 🌏 All articles are freely accessible online at: https://azjaf.zakat.com.my📨 For updates, follow AZKA on Telegram: https://t.me/AZKAakademizakat Moving Forward AZJAF remains committed to fostering intellectual dialogue and practical solutions in the field of zakat, waqf, and Islamic social finance. We invite scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to read, cite, and share these articles — and to consider contributing to future issues as authors or reviewers. Together, we can continue building a stronger body of knowledge that empowers the ummah through zakat and Islamic finance. ✨ Congratulations once again to all authors and contributors of AZJAF Vol. 6 No. 2 (2025). Your dedication plays a vital role in advancing this field of knowledge.

Kuala Lumpur, 12 September 2025 – Akademi Zakat (AZKA-PPZ), in collaboration with Zurich General Takaful Malaysia Berhad, has successfully established its latest ZURICH-AZKA Corner, strategically located at the International Islamic College (IIC), Taman Batu Muda, Batu Caves. The newly set-up and fully furnished corner is designed to be a vibrant hub that nurtures Islamic social finance literacy, strengthens academic engagement, and promotes community outreach. This initiative continues AZKA’s mission to transform higher education spaces into accessible platforms for knowledge-sharing on zakat, waqf, and Islamic financial management. A Modern, Engaging Learning Space The ZURICH-AZKA Corner at IIC features a thoughtfully designed environment that includes: Custom-made bookshelves, island counters, and modular storage units Comfortable FRAGOLA sofas, modern lighting, and Nordic carpeting Smart Android TV with live broadcasting capability Green plants, signage, and wall designs reflecting Islamic finance themes This aesthetic and functional transformation demonstrates how zakat-linked corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds can be channelled into impactful infrastructure that not only enriches minds, but also instils enduring values. A Strategic Partnership The collaboration between Zurich Takaful and AZKA-PPZ reflects a shared commitment to empowering students and academic communities with literacy on zakat, waqf, and Islamic finance. With IIC being a higher learning institution under IIUM Holdings, this initiative ensures that future graduates are exposed to both academic knowledge and practical insights into Islamic social finance. Growing the AZKA Corner Network To date, 19 AZKA Corners (including this) have been established across Malaysia, each tailored to support academic institutions in fostering financial literacy and community engagement. The ZURICH-AZKA Corner at IIC further strengthens this growing network, enhancing accessibility and visibility for zakat education in a youthful and dynamic setting. A Symbol of Impactful Collaboration This project was made possible through Zurich Takaful’s support, utilising zakat wakalah funds for infrastructure development. It stands as a symbol of impactful collaboration where academia and corporate values meet for the greater good of the ummah. 📍 Location: International Islamic College (IIC), Taman Batu Muda, Batu Caves, Kuala Lumpur🎉 Completion Date: 12 September 2025 (Launch TBC) 🤝 Supported by: Zurich General Takaful Malaysia Berhad, IIC & AZKA-PPZ

Langkawi Island, Kedah, 9–11 September 2025 – The 4th Kedah International Zakat Conference (KEIZAC 2025), themed “AI-Driven Innovation in Islamic Social Economy: Empowering A Better Ummah”, gathered global experts, scholars, and practitioners to discuss the future of zakat, waqf, and Islamic social finance in the age of digital transformation. This prestigious event served as a platform to exchange critical ideas on the role of technology, research, and collaboration in shaping the Islamic social economy, while also addressing challenges such as governance, digital integrity, and sustainable community empowerment. AZKA’s Strong Presence at KEIZAC 2025 Akademi Zakat (AZKA-PPZ) was actively engaged throughout KEIZAC 2025. Our involvement underscored AZKA’s role as a knowledge leader and research hub for advancing zakat literacy, policy, and practice. The conference highlighted how institutions like AZKA are essential in bridging academic research with real-world solutions, ensuring that zakat and waqf continue to remain relevant and impactful in today’s rapidly evolving environment. AZKA’s participation also aligned with our ongoing mission: to empower society through impactful research, collaboration with universities and corporates, and advocacy for zakat as a dynamic instrument of socio-economic justice. Paper Presentation: Zakat on LTAT Contributions: Ownership, Eligibility, and Implementation Challenges As part of the parallel sessions under the theme Zakat, Waqf, Sadaqah & Infaq Fund Management and Distribution, I had the privilege of presenting my paper titled “Zakat on LTAT Contributions: Ownership, Eligibility, and Implementation Challenges”. This paper explored the emerging issue of zakat on Lembaga Tabung Angkatan Tentera (LTAT) contributions — a topic that has long been under-discussed in the zakat discourse. Key insights shared include: Ownership Questions: At what stage do contributors truly ‘own’ their LTAT savings, and how does this impact zakat liability? Eligibility (Asnaf & Muzakki): Determining who is obligated and under what conditions zakat should be levied. Implementation Challenges: The lack of fatwa guidance, limited public awareness, and operational complexities that need to be addressed before any formal imposition of zakat on LTAT can take place. I emphasised that collaboration, clear guidelines, and structured awareness campaigns are essential for strengthening the future implementation of zakat on LTAT. Only with these in place can the potential of this zakat category be fully realised for the benefit of the ummah. Key Takeaways from the Conference KEIZAC 2025 was rich with knowledge-sharing. Among the highlights: Digitalisation of Zakat & Waqf: Institutions showcased blockchain applications, AI-driven beneficiary profiling, and real-time zakat dashboards, proving how technology enhances trust and transparency. Shariah and Social Justice: Speakers stressed the importance of maqasid al-shariah in guiding innovation so that digital tools empower, rather than compromise, social equity. Global Collaboration: Participants from Indonesia, Singapore, Nigeria, Thailand, Jordan, and beyond shared successful models of zakat and waqf, inspiring new opportunities for Malaysia’s institutions. Green Zakat and Sustainability: Emerging frameworks such as the Green Zakat Framework emphasised the need to link zakat with climate resilience and ecological balance. These sessions reinforced AZKA’s conviction that innovation must go hand-in-hand with Islamic principles, ensuring that technology serves humanity and faith. Moving Forward AZKA’s involvement in KEIZAC 2025 reaffirmed our commitment to thought leadership, research excellence, and practical engagement in shaping the future of zakat. The discussions and networking opportunities provided fresh momentum to explore: New zakat categories such as LTAT contributions, FCPO, and Sukuk, Deeper integration of AI and big data into zakat systems, and Stronger partnerships across academic, corporate, and policy institutions. Through initiatives like KEIZAC, AZKA continues to champion the vision of zakat not only as a religious obligation but also as a transformative force for economic resilience, social justice, and ummah empowerment. ✨ We extend our gratitude to Lembaga Zakat Negeri Kedah (LZNK) for hosting this impactful conference, and to all knowledge partners for their invaluable insights. AZKA looks forward to continued collaboration and collective progress in advancing the Islamic social economy. 📑 For those interested in exploring the full presentation slides, the materials can be accessed via the following link:👉 https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1E4jdP4v8zTInx0G-J0XdyniqoXQLUlgO?usp=drive_link Image Gallery

Johor Bahru | 12–13 August 2025 – The 11th National Zakat Muzakarah (Muzakarah Zakat Kebangsaan) marked another milestone in Malaysia’s journey of strengthening zakat governance and practice. Organized in conjunction with the 100th Anniversary of the Johor Islamic Religious Council (MAINJ), the gathering brought together prominent zakat leaders, scholars, legal experts, and practitioners of Islamic financial management from across the country. With the theme “Evolution of Zakat Institutions: History, Challenges, and the Future,” the Muzakarah served as a vital platform to reflect on the trajectory of zakat in Malaysia — tracing its historical foundations, examining present-day realities, and exploring pathways for the future. The opening ceremony was officiated by YB Hj Mohd Fared Hj Mohd Khalid, Chairman of the Johor State Islamic Religious Affairs Committee, who underscored the significance of zakat as both a religious obligation and a socio-economic instrument for the ummah. Reviewing the Past, Assessing the Present, Envisioning the Future Throughout the two-day sessions, discussions were wide-ranging and thought-provoking. Participants revisited the history of zakat administration in Malaysia, recognising the traditional roots that have shaped its development. Equally, they evaluated the current challenges facing zakat institutions, from ensuring efficient collection and distribution, to addressing questions of governance, legal frameworks, and public trust. One important theme raised was the dual responsibility of zakat payers and recipients. Sustaining the institution of zakat requires not only efficient systems but also conscious engagement from both sides of the equation — those who contribute and those who benefit. The Muzakarah also invited participants to envision zakat governance in the era of Society 5.0, urging institutions to embrace innovation, digitalisation, and strategic transformation to remain relevant and impactful. Presentation on Corporate Transformation of Zakat Institutions Among the highlights of the program was the presentation by Dr. Muhsin Nor Paizin, Senior Manager of Akademi Zakat (AZKA), PPZ-MAIWP, on the topic:“Pengkorporatan Institusi Zakat: Membentuk Sistem Pengurusan Zakat yang Profesional dan Berdaya Saing.” The session explored how corporatization can elevate zakat institutions into professionally managed, competitive entities that uphold transparency, accountability, and innovation. Drawing from PPZ-MAIWP’s own journey, the presentation illustrated how structured governance, technological integration, and customer-focused initiatives are reshaping zakat management in Malaysia. This reflection on corporatization was timely, complementing the Muzakarah’s broader theme of institutional evolution. It highlighted that beyond collecting and distributing zakat, institutions must also embody professionalism and adaptability to sustain their credibility and maximise their social impact. Towards Stronger Collaboration and Impact As the Muzakarah concluded, participants echoed the importance of inter-institutional collaboration and harmonisation. The future of zakat in Malaysia lies not only in managing funds effectively but also in nurturing trust, building scholarly and community engagement, and continually innovating in line with the challenges of modern society. Through such dialogues, the National Zakat Muzakarah continues to serve as a beacon for collective reflection, knowledge-sharing, and reform. With contributions from diverse voices — from scholars to practitioners — the path forward for zakat institutions in Malaysia is set on firmer, more professional, and more competitive ground. Get all the presentation slides of this program in this link: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1T2pWYb6HHBCu0vHv7UXqVuFrGhV2UNpm?usp=sharing Kredit gambar @MajlisAgamaIslamJohor Lets Watch Siaran rakaman di bawah: https://youtu.be/5j3CLN-NNJk