PENANG has recorded highly encouraging growth in its zakat (tithe) collection, driven by the continuous efforts and commitment of the Zakat Penang Islamic Religious Council (Zakat MAINPP).
Deputy Chief Minister I Prof Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid, who is in charge of the Islamic Development, Education and National Unity portfolio, said as of October this year, total zakat collection reached RM134,145,481.56, surpassing the RM120,087,255.00 collected during the same period last year.
“This significant increase reflects the confidence of the Muslim community in the state’s zakat management system, as well as the effectiveness of Zakat MAINPP’s distribution mechanisms and community development programmes.
“With the current momentum, Penang is on track to achieve its RM200 million zakat collection target for 2025,” Dr Mohamad (PH–Batu Maung) said during his winding-up speech at the Penang State Legislative Assembly in Light Street.
Dr Mohamad added that under the youth development pillar of the Islamic Development Agenda 2030 (APAI2030), the state government remains focused on nurturing a competitive, disciplined and resilient young Muslim generation.
“This development framework adopts a holistic approach, encompassing character building, leadership, social skills and a strong sense of responsibility towards the community.
“Throughout 2025, various programmes were implemented to provide opportunities for teenagers and youths to sharpen their potential, showcase their talents and build self-confidence.
“These initiatives also instil values of respect, compassion, volunteerism and unity among youths from diverse backgrounds.
“One key initiative was the Program Belia Madani Merdeka, which brought together 250 participants aged 18 to 30 at the Southwest District Mosque. The programme focused on personality development, volunteerism, youth participation in community activities and awareness of their roles in society,” he said.
He added that youth leadership development was also further strengthened through Next Gen Mukmin Mantop, involving 250 youths from North Seberang Perai, and the Next Gen Mukmin programme for teenagers aged 14 to 16 from Islamic religious secondary schools (SMAR) and local mosque communities.
“These programmes emphasised leadership training, mental resilience, self-discipline and character building through well-structured spiritual and outdoor activities.
“The state government believes that these coordinated efforts will shape a generation of young Penangites who are competitive, ethical, disciplined and ready to contribute meaningfully to community development and the future of the state, in line with APAI2030 aspirations,” he explained.
Dr Mohamad stressed that the Penang government, together with MAINPP, continues to enhance the role of mosques as key institutions for Muslim community development.
“Penang remains committed to allocating 30% of the total cost for the construction of new mosques, reaffirming its dedication to strengthening mosques as centres of learning, unity and sustainable community growth.
“This year, five mosques were successfully completed. They are Masjid Papan, Masjid Taman Sungai Dua Utama, Masjid Bandar Cassia, Masjid Sungai Kechil Nibong Tebal and Masjid Mengkuang Titi. The state government contributed RM9.8 million towards these projects.
“Another mosque, Masjid Bandar Putra Bertam, is expected to be completed this year with an additional allocation of RM2 million.
“Three more mosques are currently under construction namely Masjid Lama Sungai Bakap (RM6 million), Masjid Cherok Tok Kun Bawah (RM4.5 million) and Masjid Permatang Tinggi (RM3.5 million).
“Meanwhile, work on the Masjid Bandaraya Pulau Pinang at the Smart City Campus KITAB, Bandar Cassia, is also in progress, with land investigations and design preparation being carried out by the Penang Public Works Department (JKR),” he said.
Dr Mohamad further mentioned that the state government, through MAINPP, continues its commitment to elevating the status and welfare of Fardhu Ain (Kafa) teachers.
“Key improvements include increasing Kafa teachers’ allowance from RM1,300 to RM1,500, increasing head master’s allowance from RM1,350 to RM1,600 and introducing a special RM1,100 maternity incentive for female Kafa teachers.
“To enhance teaching and learning quality, RM150,000 has also been allocated, alongside extending Kafa’s operational days from three to five days a week,” he concluded.
Story by Riadz Akmal