Labuan: The Federal Territories Islamic Religious Council (MAIWP) has earmarked RM6.5 million in zakat funds for 6,500 registered asnaf through its Special Ramadan and Aidilfitri Assistance programme this year.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Labuan MAIWP manager Md Fadzli Md Saad stated that each asnaf, who also benefits from MAIWP’s monthly aid, is set to receive RM1,000. The disbursement occurs in two phases, with RM500 provided before Ramadan and another RM500 before Aidilfitri, directly deposited into their bank accounts.

Md Fadzli further explained that MAIWP has already initiated the transfer of RM500 into recipients’ accounts starting last week, ahead of Ramadan, while the remaining RM500 will be distributed before Aidilfitri. Additionally, he mentioned that RM54,000 in zakat funds has been sanctioned to assist 180 orphaned students from Darul Kifayah and MAIWP religious schools as part of the Aidilfitri Assistance programme. Each student will receive RM300 credited to their accounts before Aidilfitri.

Furthermore, 12 outstanding students currently enrolled at public institutions of higher learning have been awarded the 2024/2025 MAIWP Special Incentive Scholarship totaling RM407,170. The scholarship encompasses tuition fees, living allowances, accommodation costs, and study materials, tailored to the students’ current course expenses at their respective universities.

Md Fadzli expressed hope that this contribution would motivate students to excel in their studies, thereby enhancing their family’s circumstances. He also extended gratitude to zakat contributors for their steadfast commitment to fulfilling their obligations annually. Last year, MAIWP allocated RM10 million for the education cluster to support Labuan students.