KUALA LUMPUR, March 20 — The Wakaf Mara Madani initiative has raised RM51.6 million in the first three months of this year, underscoring strong public backing for the fund aimed at boosting the socio-economic position of the Malay and Bumiputera communities.
Deputy Prime Minister and Rural and Regional Development Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the endowment fund had drawn contributions from 1,845 donors.
The Bumiputera Economic Congress 2024 joint chairman said that at its official launch by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim last Friday, 1,114 donors contributed RM201,168.
“These figures reflect public confidence in this initiative as a driver of sustainable economic progress for the Bumiputera community,” he said in a statement today.
“As a mauquf (capital in the form of money or property) fund, these cash wakaf contributions must be strategically managed to ensure lasting, high-impact benefits. The first disbursement of returns from the fund is expected in July 2025,” he added.
In its initial phase, Wakaf Mara Madani will focus on key areas including education, entrepreneurship, welfare, healthcare, transport and the development of wakaf assets, Zahid explained.
A major initiative will provide financial aid to students entering higher education institutions, particularly for the July 2025 intake, he said.
He also urged more individuals, corporations and non-governmental organisations to contribute, saying wakaf donations were not only a form of charity but also a long-term investment in the Bumiputera economy.
“The more people participate in wakaf, the greater the benefits we can extend to society and the nation,” Zahid said.
He also expressed confidence that Wakaf Mara Madani would become a key driver of a sustainable and inclusive Bumiputera economy, supported by transparent management, clear strategies and strong public backing.
— Bernama
