A total of RM13.02 million in zakat (tithe) contribution has been distributed by Tabung Baitulmal Sarawak (TBS) to the needy and asnaf groups in the state as of February 28 this year, said its general manager Datu Abg Mohd Shibli Abang Mohd Nailie.

He said this was made possible by the sound management and distribution system of tithe collection from Muslims by TBS.

Asnaf refers to the group of people worthy of receiving a Muslim tithe which includes the destitute, the poor, the tithe collectors, the converts and others.

“We are very grateful that Muslims continue to pay zakat to TBS which is then distributed to those designated in the AlQuran,” he said at the first Iftar ceremony with Asnaf in Miri on Wednesday.

“We also collect zakat through the Baitulmal Sarawak Fund Application which can be

downloaded from AppStore and Google Play,” he added.

Since it was introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic, collecting zakat fitrah and zakat harta payment through online platforms has increased, but making payment through the appointed amil is still relevant, he said.

TBS programmes include the strengthening of scholarly traditions, Islamic institutions development, enhancing Ummah welfare and skills.

Meanwhile, the ceremony held at Miri Islamic Complex saw Abang Mohd Shibli handing out financial assistance amounting to RM52,800 to 28

recipients and three Tahfiz centres to ease their burden during the month of Ramadan and in preparation for the upcoming Syawal.

The presentation ceremony was also attended by deputy head of Corporate Affairs Sector, Iskandar Allan, and head of TBS Miri, Marini Juraibi.