TH Channels RM10.3 Mln To Empower Over 1,000 Microentrepreneurs

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 14 (Bernama) -- Lembaga Tabung Haji (TH) is continuing its mission to uplift the lives of microentrepreneurs from the asnaf (eligible tithe recipients) and B40 communities nationwide, channelling RM10.3 million to date through Sadaqa House, a social finance initiative by Bank Islam Malaysia Bhd recognised globally for its impact.

In a statement today, TH said the contribution, which includes RM3.8 million disbursed this year alone, has helped over 1,000 microentrepreneurs build stronger businesses and improve their livelihoods.

The funds have supported the iTEKAD Entrepreneur Development Programme, which has delivered a powerful multiplier effect, unlocking over RM12 million in financing through its revolving fund structure.

“The funds have also been utilised for various purposes, including non-profit microfinancing based on qardhul hasan (benevolent lending), business grants for asnaf microentrepreneurs, entrepreneurial training, business coaching and impact studies to improve the effectiveness of the iTEKAD programme,” the statement read.

The success of the initiative is evident, with over 35 per cent of iTEKAD BangKIT participants, involving 341 microentrepreneurs, increasing their household income within a year of joining the programme since 2020.

TH Group managing director and chief executive officer Mustakim Mohamad said the initiative reflects TH’s broader vision as an Islamic institution, one that not only manages haj savings and operations, but also contributes to the economic empowerment of the Muslim community through investments and zakat (tithe) distribution.

“TH believes that ummah development must be approached holistically, not just through worship, but also through financial empowerment. This contribution represents a long-term social investment for the well-being of society and shared blessings,” he said.

Meanwhile, Bank Islam group chief social finance officer Mohd Nazri Chik said TH’s role as the largest shareholder has been instrumental in driving the success of Sadaqa House to continuously benefit communities.

“TH’s commitment allows us to elevate Islamic social finance instruments such as sadaqah and zakat as inclusive and sustainable financial solutions,” he said.

One such beneficiary is Norzie Nani Md Bahari, who runs Issnanie Pink Enterprise. She used the iTEKAD funds to buy a delivery motorcycle, printer, blender and raw materials to grow her homemade jeruk buah (pickled fruit) business.

When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Norzie adapted by selling her products through food delivery platforms, boosting her daily sales from RM350 to RM1,100.

She now employs two full-time staff, runs a shop in Kajang and is giving back to the community through donations to Sadaqa House, with plans to pay business zakat next year.

Another inspiring story is that of Mah Ali, a mother of three and breast cancer survivor. After joining iTEKAD BangKIT, she expanded her tailoring business by investing in an embroidery machine.

Today, she counts uniformed agencies among her clients, operates a one-stop tailoring centre, and mentors four aspiring entrepreneurs in her community.

Encouraged by such outcomes, TH is confident that this initiative will continue to be a catalyst for inclusive and sustainable development, in line with the Malaysia Madani agenda to strengthen the economic resilience of the ummah.

-- BERNAMA