Optimising Zakat Fund in Empowering Mu’allaf in Brunei Darussalam

Abstract

Within the unique socio-economic setting of Brunei Darussalam, the new Muslim converts which is known as Mu`allaf represent a diverse community with distinct needs ranging from religious education and social integration to economic stability. Mu’allaf individuals often find themselves on a reflective journey, marked by a transition into a new faith and the need for cultural integration. While the conversion is spiritually enriching, there will be challenges which include religious understanding and to assimilation into a diverse and vibrant Muslim community. Furthermore, these individuals may encounter economic difficulty during this transitional period, making it essential to address their socio-economic needs to ensure their sustainability as active members of the Muslim community. Zakat is one of the Islamic social finance instruments that embodies a core principle of social and economic justice in Islamic institutions. This conceptual framework aims to explore the multidimensional role of zakat as an instrumental tool for empowering and supporting the sustainability of mu’allaf community within Brunei Darussalam. The framework describes the specific requirements and nuances of the mu’allaf community. It emphasizes the importance of a needs-based approach that tailors zakat disbursement programs to encompass religious education, cultural integration, vocational training, and socio- economic support. The conceptual framework also underlines the significance of community engagement and support, in recognizing that empowerment extends beyond financial assistance to cultivate the sense of belonging and self-reliance among mu’allaf individuals. In conclusion, this paper’s intention is to the ongoing discourse on zakat’s transformative potential within the context of Brunei Darussalam and thus strengthen their faith, enrich their lives, and assimilation into the broader Muslim community.