THE Government has allocated RM1.5bil under Belanjawan 2023 for the management of Islamic affairs in the country. This allocation aims to enhance the administrative efficiency of Islamic institutions. The initiatives for Islamic matters announced by the prime minister during the tabling of Belanjawan 2023 include:
– Repairs: RM150mil for repair works at rakyat Islamic schools, tahfiz schools, and registered pondok institutions.
– Higher KAFA allowance: More than RM40mil to increase allowance by RM100 – bringing the amount to RM1,100 – for 35,000 Kelas Agama and Fardu Ain (KAFA) teachers.
Additionally, over RM40mil will be allocated for a RM600 one-off special payment to 70,000 imam, bilal, tok siak, noja, marbut, KAFA teachers, and takmir teachers.
With regards to EPF syariah savings introduced in 2017, syariah savings assets are currently invested alongside syariah-compliant assets in conventional savings. However, starting in 2024, EPF syariah savings assets will be fully separated to provide competitive returns to the 1.25 million members who own syariah accounts.
For wakaf land development, the government has received commitments from the private sector to establish Wakaf Madani with assets worth more than RM1bil. These assets will include land, mosques, as well as health and education facilities, and will be optimized for the benefit of the poor, low-income earners, and other vulnerable groups.
The prime minister emphasizes that the wakaf method is one of the redistributive mechanisms that contribute to universal prosperity. He cites examples such as the successful development of Bank Islam Tower and Wakf Felda, indicating the real potential in wakaf sector development.
The government also reaffirms its commitment to supporting religious activities according to the Rukun Negara, wherein Islam is the official religion while allowing other religions to be practiced freely. An allocation of RM50mil is provided for the maintenance and repair work of non-Muslim houses of worship throughout the country.
These measures have provided relief to the target groups, and there are various other initiatives under Belanjawan 2023 to support religious activities and ensure their vibrancy. The application process for these initiatives is user-friendly and swift, and those who qualify should quickly apply for the benefits.
To learn more about the benefits provided by the government in Belanjawan 2023 measures, visit belanjawan.mof.gov.my/manfaat.
Credit: The Star : News Feed
