“Zakat? What’s Zakat?” someone asks. The Pusat Zakat Selangor stands before us. It is more than just a building. It’s a cornerstone of Islamic practice in Selangor. Since its establishment, the Lembaga Zakat Selangor or LZS has managed the collection and distribution of zakat. Zakat is Islamic alms.
Established 20 years ago, LZS is synonymous with zakat management in Selangor. The institution manages zakat efficiently, effectively and fairly. This aligns with Islamic principles.
In 1994, MAIS Zakat Sdn. Bhd. was established. It was known as Pusat Zakat Selangor at that time. It aimed to collect and distribute zakat in Selangor. In 2006, PZS was upgraded to Lembaga Zakat Selangor. MAIS Zakat Sdn. Bhd became dormant. It was reactivated in 2011. This expanded LZS’s role in economic development for the poor in Selangor. In November 2015, MAIS Zakat Sdn. Bhd. changed its name to Teraju Ekonomi Asnaf Sdn. Bhd or TERAS.
LZS collects various types of zakat. These include zakat on income and business. There is zakat on gold and silver. Zakat Fitrah is collected during Ramadan. Zakat on EPF withdrawals is also collected. Finally, zakat is collected on agriculture and livestock.
The money collected is distributed to eight groups. These are the Asnaf. They are the rightful beneficiaries. They include the extremely poor and the poor. Zakat administrators called Amil also benefit. New converts to Islam called Muallaf are included. Individuals in debt called Gharimin are supported. Those working for Allah’s cause called Fisabilillah receive assistance. Stranded travellers called Ibnu Sabil also benefit. Those in bondage or slavery called Riqab are supported.
LZS offers an online zakat calculator. This helps people determine how much zakat they should pay. It considers income, savings and property. LZS provides online payment options. These include credit cards, debit cards and online banking.
LZS actively educates the Muslim community. They raise awareness about zakat’s importance. They conduct campaigns, seminars and public forums.
Paying zakat through LZS has advantages. LZS ensures accountability and transparency. It makes zakat contributions easy and convenient. Donations to LZS are tax-exempt. LZS ensures that all activities comply with Islamic law. This gives contributors confidence.
LZS has a helpline. It assists with zakat payment and distribution queries. The number is 1-800-88-5353. LZS offices are located throughout Selangor.
With the motto “Leading Change”, LZS strives to provide the best service. They serve both payers and recipients of zakat. Over 400 employees support LZS. They operate across 25 branches in Selangor. LZS serves with integrity and transparency. LZS ensures more people fulfill this pillar of Islam. Zakat distribution is improved. It comprehensively supports the eight Asnaf. This is done through five main development programs. These programs focus on social, educational and economic aspects. They also focus on human and religious institution development.
LZS aims to uplift not only the Asnaf. They want to uplift the entire community. Many successful entrepreneurs have emerged. Asnaf children excel in education and pursue higher studies. Families have comfortable homes. The burden of high medical costs is eased. LZS continues to uphold its responsibilities. It ensures this pillar of Islam is upheld.