Kuala lumpur: The Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP) has distributed over RM447 million in zakat funds as of yesterday, according to Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Dr Zulkifli Hasan. This substantial amount has been allocated across 38 aid schemes, including indirect assistance through asnaf development programs and educational institutions under MAIWP's supervision.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Zulkifli emphasized the council's achievements in terms of auditing, governance, and transparency. He stated that the distribution efforts by MAIWP are conducted in a highly transparent manner. Dr Zulkifli shared these remarks with reporters following the MAIWP Baitulmal Skills Institute (IKB) convocation ceremony.
In his earlier address, Dr Zulkifli acknowledged the dedication of zakat contributors within the Federal Territories, praising their unwavering commitment to helping those in need and referring to them as the real heroes behind the aid efforts. He noted that without their support, the initiatives to assist the needy could not have been executed effectively.
The ceremony also celebrated the accomplishments of 88 IKB MAIWP graduates who successfully completed their studies in various skills fields. Dr Zulkifli highlighted this event as a testament to the ongoing commitment to enhancing Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), particularly for the asnaf group. This aligns with the MADANI government's goal of ensuring inclusive access to education.
Dr Zulkifli urged graduates to continue honing their skills, pursue lifelong learning, and explore diverse career paths, including entrepreneurship. He expressed his aspiration for IKB MAIWP to evolve as a model training institution that not only focuses on technical skills but also instills character, integrity, and Islamic values among students.
The convocation ceremony underscored MAIWP's dedication to empowering the asnaf community through skills education, aiming to elevate their living standards and secure a brighter future.