Impact of empowerment, entrepreneurship and skill enhancement initiatives on poverty alleviation for asnaf zakat

• Main Authors: Mhd. Sarif, Suhaimi, Ismail, Yusof
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Lembaga Zakat Negeri Kedah 2024
• Subjects: BPH104 Islam and poverty; BPH830.3 Social systems. Urban groups. Cities and towns. Sustainable urban development; BPL27 Aims and objectives of education. Sustainable education; HF5387 Business ethics; HF5475.I74 Halal business, entrepreneur, marketing, management, and administration
• Online Access: http://irep.iium.edu.my/112023/2/112023_Impact%20of%20empowerment%2C%20entrepreneurship%20and%20skill.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/112023/; https://journal.zakatkedah.com.my/current-issues/

Zakat is a wealth-based practice (a deed or an ‘ibadah) that aims to provide for the needs of the asnaf (eligible recipients) in society. In advanced and civilized societies, poverty persists, and the global community strives to eradicate it. Zakat and other forms of charity are expected to play a crucial role in this agenda. This paper examines the empowerment, entrepreneurship, and skill enhancement initiatives targeted towards alleviating the poor and hardcore poverty-stricken asnaf. The study used qualitative personal interviews with activists championing asnaf-driven soup kitchen that are supported by zakat and charities with the asnaf entrepreneurial orientation. Findings of the study support the effectiveness of empowerment, entrepreneurship, and skill enhancement initiatives aimed at alleviating poverty among the poor and hardcore poverty-stricken asnaf. These initiatives include the establishment of free food distribution centres that not only provide meals but also offer employment opportunities for the asnaf. Additionally, entrepreneurial slots are provided for free premium food sales, allowing asnaf to generate income. Moreover, skill enhancement programs, such as food internships, are implemented to enhance the culinary skills of asnaf.