MAINS Targets Over RM8 Million In Cash Waqf Collection This Year

SEREMBAN, March 4 (Bernama) -- The Negeri Sembilan Islamic Religious Council (MAINS) aims to increase cash waqf collection to more than RM8 million this year, surpassing the RM5.6 million collected in 2023.

Its chairman Datuk Seri Dr Abdul Aziz Sheikh Ab Kadir said the funds would be raised through salary deductions from government and private sector employees, as well as contributions from the community via online banking, waqf funds, and cash donations at MAINS counters at the district level.

“This year, Insya-Allah, the amount will increase. With salary adjustments and growing awareness, we estimate collections could exceed RM8 million. Our community understands that waqf not only brings benefits in this world but also offers lasting rewards in the hereafter,” he said.

He added that, besides salary deductions and public waqf, MAINS has established its Dakwah and Marketing Unit to encourage public participation. Friday sermons also include calls for the community to contribute to waqf.

He said this after launching the Negeri Sembilan Waqf Month, an event also attended by Congress of Unions of Employees in the Public and Civil Services (Cuepacs) president Datuk Dr Adnan Mat.

Abdul Aziz added that MAINS' waqf distribution focuses on four key sectors: education, health, socio-economics, and property development. Through this initiative, MAINS plays a vital role in channelling benefits to those in need across Negeri Sembilan.

“This includes providing health equipment such as oxygen machines and medical devices for government and private hospitals, as well as supporting the development of mosques, surau, madrasah, tahfiz centres, and educational facilities, including computers and air conditioners,” he said.

Additionally, he noted that MAINS is expanding its collaboration network this year by partnering with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Negeri Sembilan branch and Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) to promote waqf practices through a cash waqf collection platform for students and the wider community.

Meanwhile, Adnan expressed Cuepacs' full support for MAINS' efforts and encouraged the public, particularly civil servants, to contribute to waqf through salary deductions.

"This serves as an expression of gratitude, especially following the recent salary increase. Civil servants are accustomed to salary deductions for zakat, taxes, and other contributions.

“So, let’s make waqf a priority - even though it is voluntary - by dedicating a portion of our income as a token of gratitude for the sustenance Allah has provided, returning it in the form of waqf contributions,” he said.

--BERNAMA