Malaysia will not compromise on zakat fund misuse as the minister vows firm legal action against any wrongdoing, including criminal breach of trust
KUALA LUMPUR: The government will not compromise and will take firm action against any party involved in the misappropriation of zakat funds, including offences such as criminal breach of trust and abuse of power.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan said the matter is being taken seriously, with authorities entrusted to carry out a thorough investigation.
“This issue (zakat fund misappropriation) is still under investigation and does not reflect the overall system or management of zakat collection in Malaysia.
“It must be investigated first, and any wrongdoing, including breach of trust or abuse of power, will be dealt with under the law without exception,” he told reporters after visiting residents of Yayasan Pendidikan Insani in Bandar Baru Selayang today.
He also expressed confidence that zakat institutions generally manage funds responsibly, while stressing the need to further strengthen governance.
“Alhamdulillah, many zakat centres are now performing well, including the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council, which has received various governance recognitions and clean audit certificates from the Auditor-General,” he said.
On the role of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in zakat management, he said the matter should be referred to the State Islamic Religious Councils and state-level zakat authorities.
Commenting on efforts to enhance governance among Islamic NGOs, Zulkifli said the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) has introduced initiatives to strengthen organisational capacity, particularly in financial management and governance.
“We provide training and courses to Islamic NGOs to strengthen governance and financial management. We are also exploring more comprehensive programmes to support their development,” he said.
