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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

Melaka | 8 August 2025 – In a meaningful step towards enriching community access to knowledge and fostering a culture of learning, PPZ-MAIWP, through the Akademi Zakat (AZKA-PPZ) as intermediary, has proudly served as one of the main sponsors for the Sudut Bacaan Sejahtera MADANI (MADANI Reading Corner) at Universiti Teknikal Malaysia Melaka’s (UTeM) Adopted Village — Kampung Bukit Nibong, Ayer Molek, Melaka. This initiative is part of the Knowledge Sharing Transfer Program (KSTP), an ongoing effort by UTeM to empower local communities through education, knowledge sharing, and skills development. It aligns with the broader MADANI values of inclusivity, sustainability, and shared prosperity, while reflecting AZKA-PPZ’s mission to integrate zakat’s social development mandate into initiatives that uplift society. A Collaborative Effort with a Shared Purpose The culmination of the programme took place on 8 August 2025 with the official handover and launch of the MADANI Reading Corner, officiated by Professor Dr. Zahriladha bin Zakaria, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research & Innovation) of UTeM. Representing AZKA-PPZ at the ceremony were Pn. Nurul Shuhada Mamat and Pn. Nurul Izzah Azhar, who witnessed the event alongside a strong line-up of collaborators, including other sponsors, corporate partners, and community leaders. The initiative also received contributions from a wide network of partners, including the Village Development and Security Committee (JPKK) of Kampung Bukit Nibong, UTeM’s Artificial Intelligence Club, UTeM Holdings Sdn. Bhd., Sawipac Sdn. Bhd., CPS Ventures Sdn. Bhd., Pekan Ilmu Publication Sdn. Bhd., Institut Terjemahan & Buku Malaysia, Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, Koperasi UTeM Berhad, Penerbit UTeM, IEEE Asia-Pacific Limited, and Access Dunia Sdn. Bhd. This multi-stakeholder collaboration underlines a key reality — that meaningful, sustainable impact is best achieved through collective effort. Beyond a Reading Corner — A Community Platform While physically located at Kampung Bukit Nibong, the Sudut Bacaan Sejahtera MADANI is designed to be far more than just a space to house books. It is envisioned as a dynamic platform for knowledge exchange, where members of the community — from school children to the elderly — can engage with educational resources, literacy programmes, and skill-building activities. By providing a dedicated, accessible learning space within the village, the initiative seeks to: Encourage a lifelong reading habit and love for knowledge across all age groups. Support literacy development and educational advancement for underserved communities. Create an inclusive environment for cross-generational learning. Strengthen community identity and social cohesion through shared educational activities. For AZKA-PPZ, the initiative reflects an understanding that the role of zakat institutions extends beyond monetary distribution. It includes supporting the infrastructure and opportunities that allow communities to break cycles of poverty through knowledge, skills, and empowerment. AZKA-PPZ’s Commitment to Knowledge Empowerment As the knowledge and research arm of PPZ-MAIWP, AZKA-PPZ has long championed programmes that bridge education with social finance principles. Its involvement in the MADANI Reading Corner project represents a deliberate step towards embedding the values of zakat literacy and social empowerment into tangible community development initiatives. In facilitating and sponsoring this project, AZKA-PPZ plays a dual role: Resource Provider – Supporting the physical establishment of the reading corner. Community Development Partner – Working alongside local and institutional stakeholders to ensure the space becomes an active hub of learning, not just a static collection of books. This approach mirrors AZKA-PPZ’s wider strategic direction of ensuring zakat collection is matched with impactful, sustainable programmes that benefit society in the long term. A Vision for Sustainable Impact In his officiating remarks, Professor Dr. Zahriladha bin Zakaria emphasised that the MADANI Reading Corner should not only be a symbol of academic pride but a living, breathing centre of knowledge for the local community. This sentiment echoes the vision shared by AZKA-PPZ — that true empowerment comes when educational access is continuous, inclusive, and designed to inspire. As part of the broader KSTP, literacy-based activities had already begun on 19 July 2025, laying the groundwork for the reading corner’s official launch. These early activities included information literacy workshops, skills training, and knowledge-sharing sessions aimed at preparing the community to fully utilise and take ownership of the space. Conclusion The Sudut Bacaan Sejahtera MADANI at Kampung Bukit Nibong stands as a testament to what can be achieved when institutions, corporations, and communities work together with a shared vision. For PPZ-MAIWP and AZKA-PPZ, it is a reaffirmation of their commitment to empowering communities through education, fostering a culture of lifelong learning, and ensuring that the values of zakat are lived out in ways that transform lives. It is hoped that this initiative will serve as an enduring act of amal jariah — one that continues to benefit the community, ignite curiosity, and strengthen the link between knowledge and social well-being for years to come.

On 18 July 2025, a significant milestone in zakat literacy and academic collaboration was marked with the launch of the AZKA Corner @ UiTM Johor, held at the Tun Dr. Ismail Library, UiTM Johor Segamat Campus. The initiative was made possible through a strategic collaboration between Etiqa Family Takaful Berhad and Pusat Pungutan Zakat – Majlis Agama Islam Wilayah Persekutuan (PPZ-MAIWP), specifically through its knowledge arm, Akademi Zakat (AZKA-PPZ). This is the 18th AZKA Corner established in institutions of higher learning across Malaysia — a strong testament to AZKA-PPZ’s commitment in building a nationwide knowledge network that connects students, academics, and communities to the essence of zakat, waqf, and Islamic social finance. Beyond a Reading Space: A Hub of Zakat Literacy and Community Growth AZKA Corner is not merely a reading area filled with books. It is a purpose-built knowledge platform that integrates Islamic values into academic life, offering curated resources, references, and guidance on zakat governance, waqf development, and ethical financial practices. For students and faculty members, it serves as both a learning catalyst and a practical bridge between theoretical knowledge and social responsibility. With the rise of interest in Islamic social finance and the growing number of Muslim professionals in the country, this initiative is timely and strategic. It reflects a future-forward vision to instil early awareness and literacy on zakat management among the younger generation — especially those pursuing professional and business-related disciplines. PPZ-MAIWP and AZKA’s Role: Driving the Mission Forward Representing PPZ-MAIWP at the event were Mr. Azlan Shaari, General Manager of Human Resources, and Dr. Muhsin Nor Paizin, Senior Manager of AZKA-PPZ — both of whom have been instrumental in steering the long-term roadmap for AZKA Corner development across higher education institutions. As part of its broader mission, PPZ-MAIWP continues to ensure that zakat is not only collected and distributed effectively, but also communicated meaningfully through educational outreach, research, and academic collaboration. The AZKA Corner project sits at the heart of this mission — transforming libraries into living classrooms for zakat knowledge. With the support of partners like Etiqa, AZKA-PPZ is further able to channel corporate zakat wakalah contributions into impactful initiatives that benefit students — particularly those from underprivileged and asnaf backgrounds — while also enriching the intellectual fabric of university campuses. A Future Built on Literacy and Trust The launch of AZKA Corner at UiTM Johor signals more than just the opening of a space — it symbolizes a shared vision between academia, zakat institutions, and corporate entities to nurture well-rounded individuals who are spiritually grounded and socially conscious. Moving forward, AZKA-PPZ aims to continue expanding this initiative across Malaysia, laying down the infrastructure for a generation that understands not only how to give, but why giving matters. To learn more about PPZ-MAIWP or to contribute zakat through its official channels, visit:🌐 www.zakat.com.my

Bangi, Selangor – For the first time ever, nearly 200 du’at and asatizah (Islamic preachers and scholars) from across Malaysia gathered at the Ijtimak Duat dan Asatizah Zakat (IjDAZ) 2025, a landmark event held in Bangi. Organised by Lembaga Zakat Selangor (LZS) in collaboration with PPZ-MAIWP and JAWHAR, this programme carried the theme “Towards Empowering Syariah Governance and Da’wah Among Zakat Officers in Malaysia.” It marked a crucial starting point in unifying efforts to strengthen the da’wah and syariah dimensions of zakat in a structured, impactful way at the national level. A National Platform for Synergy and Growth More than just a scholarly gathering, IjDAZ 2025 served as a pivotal national platform to enhance cooperation, align understandings, and build working networks among state zakat institutions. The event featured a rich agenda of strategic activities — from academic presentations and leadership forums to collaborative resolution discussions. Each component aimed to ensure that zakat institutions across Malaysia remain relevant, trusted, and truly impactful for society. Through the unwavering commitment of LZS, PPZ-MAIWP, and JAWHAR, IjDAZ is paving a new path for the future of zakat in Malaysia — one that is more unified, structured, and anchored in the blessings of the ummah. Official Launch and Leadership Support The programme was officially launched by Dato’ Selamat Paigo, Director General of the Department of Waqf, Zakat and Hajj (JAWHAR), representing the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), YB Senator Dato’ Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Na’im Haji Mokhtar. This endorsement underscores the federal government’s strong support for the development of a robust, integrated zakat ecosystem. Solid Resolutions for a Stronger Future IjDAZ 2025’s resolutions, summarised by Tn Hj Khairulazhar Samsudin, outlined a clear roadmap: Establish syariah governance by appointing Syariah Officers or setting up Syariah Units at all MAIN/AMZ. Coordinate zakat fatwas at the national level on shared interests. Set up a National Zakat Da’wah Academy to train du’at under a recognised certification by MPZN. Publish a National Zakat Da’wah Manual for states to reference in strengthening syariah governance and da’wah. Access Programme Materials To extend the benefits of this historic event, we’ve made the program materials and resources available for download. Access them here:📂 Download IjDAZ 2025 Materials You can also explore highlights and photos via our Facebook page:🔗 IjDAZ 2025 on Facebook Moving Forward We pray that this collaboration will serve as a catalyst for stronger zakat governance, more effective da’wah, and enduring unity among all stakeholders — ultimately ensuring the well-being of the ummah. May these efforts not remain mere words on a resolution paper but become a heartbeat of change, reminding us that we, as du’at and amil, are not just managing figures and distributions — we are building a civilisation where zakat is not just an obligation, but a means to uplift humanity and draw hearts closer to God.  

Gombak, 30 June 2025 – The journey to promote literacy on zakat, waqf, and Islamic social finance reached a new milestone with the official launch of the MBSB AZKA-PPZ Corner at the M. Kamal Hassan Library, International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), Gombak Campus. This initiative stands as a testament to the power of strategic collaboration, bringing together MBSB Bank, PPZ-MAIWP, and IIUM to create a dedicated knowledge space that is not just a reading corner, but a platform for learning, engagement, and research on the holistic values of Islamic social finance. A Vision Made Possible Through Collaboration The ceremony was officiated by YBhg. Prof. Emeritus Datuk Dr. Osman Bakar, Rector of IIUM, accompanied by Tuan Hj Azrin bin Dato’ Hj Abdul Manan, Deputy CEO (Management) of PPZ-MAIWP, and Tuan Azmi Abd Rahim, Head of Community Affairs, MBSB Bank. The event featured welcoming remarks by Madam Yusrina Abu Bakar, Chief Librarian of Dar al-Hikmah Library, followed by an officiating speech, a launching gimmick and video presentation, plaque signing, and a group tour of the new AZKA Corner space, before concluding with lunchItinerary-Launching-MBS…. Driving Literacy and Impact — From Planning to Launch It was deeply fulfilling to witness the culmination of efforts that began back in 2024, where we worked hand in hand with the passionate library team at IIUM to bring this vision into reality. This AZKA Corner is the 16th of its kind, part of a nationwide network driven by Akademi Zakat (AZKA-PPZ) under PPZ-MAIWP, designed to spark deeper understanding and appreciation of zakat and waqf among university communities. With the strong support of MBSB Bank as a strategic partner, this initiative demonstrates how the synergy between Islamic financial institutions, zakat agencies, and academic bodies can uplift literacy and encourage proactive discussions around social finance. More Than Just a Reading Space The AZKA Corner at IIUM is intended to be a living platform — a catalyst for academic exploration, seminars, informal learning sessions, and personal reflection on how zakat and waqf contribute to economic justice and community well-being. By continuously enriching the collection with the latest publications from AZKA-PPZ and beyond, this space will serve as a valuable resource hub for students, researchers, and faculty members seeking to engage with the ethical and spiritual dimensions of Islamic finance. Looking Ahead We pray that this effort becomes a source of guidance, knowledge, and barakah — strengthening both understanding and practice of zakat in IIUM and inspiring similar initiatives across other institutions. As always, we invite everyone to fulfil their zakat obligations through PPZ-MAIWP’s official channels: simple, secure, and trusted. Together, let us continue to empower the ummah through knowledge and meaningful social contributions. 📍 Venue: M. Kamal Hassan Library, IIUM Gombak Campus🤝 In collaboration with: MBSB Bank & PPZ-MAIWP (AZKA)📅 Launch date: 30 June 2025

AZKA International Journal of Zakat & Social Finance (AZJAF), Vol. 6, No. 1 (2025), has been published online. Assalamualaikum. I want to express my gratitude to Allah SWT because of His will and blessing, AZKA International Journal of Zakat & Social Finance (AZJAF) has received MyCITE index recognition, in the year of 2024, by the Citation & Infometrics Center (PSI) of the Ministry of Higher Education of Malaysia. This is the first recognition, and the only journal with the of themed ZAKAT and SOCIAL FINANCE to receive such recognition in Malaysia and the world. I will also want to express my gratitude to Allah SWT that Vol. 6 No. 1 (2025) published successfully. Various issues related to Islamic social finance always arise and require discussions and research to ensure that the decisions and implementation are made in accordance with the best practices. This matter is essential to increase the community’s understanding of Islamic social finance and further increase people’s awareness about it, which will directly help the community in need. AZJAF Vol. 6 No. 1 (2025) is our regular issue features ten articles related to zakat, waqf and Islamic social finance. It is hoped that new research can continue being made to strengthen Islamic social finance among Muslims. Similarly, authoritative bodies and religious institutions can benefit from every research finding as guidance to establish policies or improve Islamic social finance’s management in Malaysia, especially in the future. The research and findings will give readers an understanding of an issue that is mostly a topic related to the current discussion. Thus, I would like to thank all the parties involved in contributing ideas and thoughts to make the publication of AZJAF a success. Therefore, I hoped that readers and all stakeholders could fully utilize the research results and information in this journal.   Dr. Muhsin Nor Paizin Editor-In-Chief AZKA International Journal of Zakat & Social Finance (AZJAF) March 2025.     🌏 Visit https://azjaf.zakat.com.my to view or download all articles for free. 📨 For more info, follow AZKA @ telegram: https://t.me/AZKAakademizakat