KUCHING: Tabung Baitulmal Sarawak (TBS) is expected to record an increase in zakat collection, reaching RM145 million for the financial year 2024.
TBS general manager, Datuk Mohd Shibli Abg Mohd Nailie, stated that as of January to September this year, a total of RM106 million has been collected.
“This amount is not yet added to the end of the year, and we estimate that, Insya Allah, we could reach RM145 million this year. It wouldn’t be surprising if it even reaches RM150 million.
“So let us all pray that our Muslim community continues to grow in awareness to contribute to Baitulmal,” he said.
He made these remarks when met by reporters at the aid distribution ceremony for the asnaf at the Ummah Distribution Centre (UDC) Gallery, Medan Hamidah, Jalan Bako here yesterday.
Mohd. Shibli revealed that payroll deductions remain the highest contributor, accounting for 57 per cent of the collections.
As of September, RM82.3 million in aid had been distributed to asnaf, with educational assistance being the highest category of aid.
“The reason is that we feel this type of aid can help our people escape the cycle of poverty, as it has proven most effective. The second is for welfare purposes,” he explained.
He added that the amount allocated for aid distribution also covered four of its programmes which have been implemented so far.
Earlier, the ceremony saw a total of RM44,945 were distributed to 28 asnaf through two main TBS programmes, namely the “Strengthening the Tradition of Knowledge” programme and the “Enhancing Ummah Welfare” programme.