Building Bridges: Nigerian Zakat and Waqf Delegation’s Visit to Malaysia

By, Khalifa Saidi Khamisi | 22 February 2024

Today, amidst a backdrop of global collaboration in Zakat and Waqf initiatives, a delegation from the Association of Zakat and Waqf Operators in Nigeria (AZAWON) embarked on a transformative visit to Malaysia. Led by His Excellency Mohammad Lawal Maidoki, Chairman of AZAWON, the delegation embarked on two pivotal events aimed at fostering international cooperation and sharing best practices in philanthropy.

The day began with a significant courtesy call on Honorable Senator Dato’ Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Na’im Bi Haji Mokhtar, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs), at Kompleks Islam Putrajaya. This momentous occasion underscored the commitment of both nations to harnessing the potential of Zakat and Waqf in addressing socio-economic challenges. Welcomed with warmth and openness, the Nigerian delegation engaged in fruitful discussions, exchanging insights and strategies to optimize the impact of Zakat and Waqf initiatives.

The courtesy call served as a platform for fruitful discussions, where both parties exchanged insights, experiences, and strategies aimed at optimizing the impact of Zakat and Waqf in serving humanity. Against the backdrop of Kompleks Islam Putrajaya, a symbol of Malaysia’s commitment to religious harmony and inclusivity, the dialogue fostered deeper understanding and strengthened bonds between the two nations.

At the heart of the discussion was the shared vision of leveraging Zakat and Waqf as instruments of social empowerment and economic development. Both Malaysia and Nigeria recognize the transformative potential of philanthropy in uplifting communities and fostering sustainable growth. Through strategic partnerships and knowledge exchange, they aspire to amplify the reach and effectiveness of Zakat and Waqf initiatives, transcending geographical boundaries to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people worldwide.

Following this, the delegation embarked on a working visit to WAQAF FELDA, a groundbreaking initiative launched in Malaysia to harness the power of Waqf in driving economic growth and social development. Led by the 9th Prime Minister, Dato’ Sri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, WAQAF FELDA symbolizes Malaysia’s commitment to fostering an Ummatic Economy, vital for post-pandemic recovery. Here, the delegation had the opportunity to witness firsthand the innovative approach of WAQAF FELDA under the concept of Waqaf Korporat TM.

At WAQAF FELDA, the delegation engaged in discussions and knowledge-sharing sessions, exploring ways to adapt and implement similar initiatives in Nigeria. They were inspired by WAQAF FELDA’s inclusive development approach, which ensures that the benefits of Waqf transcend religious, racial, and geographical divides. Through allocating resources towards SMEs and job creation, WAQAF FELDA exemplifies how Waqf can be a catalyst for sustainable economic growth and social empowerment.

During the discussions, particular emphasis was placed on the need for robust policies and frameworks, drawing inspiration from Malaysia’s exemplary models, to guide the implementation of Waqaf and Zakat operations in Nigeria. Additionally, the deliberations extended to encompassing all religious affairs, recognizing the importance of establishing effective structures to ensure the smooth functioning of religious institutions and practices.

Furthermore, the conversation delved into the realm of education, acknowledging the pivotal role it plays in societal development. Participants underscored the significance of adopting best practices from Malaysia’s education system to enhance learning outcomes and promote academic excellence in Nigeria.

Ibrahim Abdul Mugis, President of AWQAF Africa, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the imperative nature of harnessing the vast potential embedded within Malaysia’s frameworks of religious ministry. His remarks underscored a collective aspiration to leverage Malaysia’s experiences and successes as a guiding light in shaping Nigeria’s socio-religious landscape for the better.

The day’s events culminated in strengthened ties between Malaysia and Nigeria, underpinned by a shared commitment to leveraging Zakat and Waqf as instruments of positive change. The engagement with both Honorable Senator Dato’ Setia Dr. Haji Mohd Na’im Bi Haji Mokhtar and WAQAF FELDA epitomized the spirit of collaboration and mutual learning, setting the stage for deeper cooperation in the future.

In conclusion, today’s events mark a significant step forward in fostering international cooperation in philanthropy. As Malaysia and Nigeria join hands in advancing Zakat and Waqf initiatives, they pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future for all.