Terengganu: The Terengganu Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIDAM) has rolled out several innovative initiatives to enhance public engagement in 'wakaf' (endowment) contributions.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, these initiatives include integrating financial market instruments with wakaf, particularly emphasizing low-risk investments like the MyWakaf Unit Trust under Amanah Saham Nasional Bhd (ASNB).

MAIDAM President Datuk Shaikh Harun Shaikh Ismail announced strategic partnerships with organizations such as Showme Kidz International Sdn Bhd and the Central Terengganu Development Authority (KETENGAH) to bolster wakaf funding in education, religion, and community socio-economic development. Additionally, MAIDAM is collaborating with Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) for wakaf collection via account holder 'hibah' (gift) contributions, supported by promotional efforts.

The 2025 State-level Wakaf Month in Terengganu was launched with the presence of the Yang Dipertuan Muda of Terengganu, Tengku Muhammad Ismail Sultan Mizan, and other dignitaries. Shaikh Harun noted MAIDAM's commitment to optimizing asset use for revenue generation through various means, including rentals and development, to fortify the Wakaf Zuriat (family endowment).

He highlighted MAIDAM's digital advancements, such as the E-Wakaf Zuriat, which aim to improve governance of family wakaf through technology. The initiative is considered one of Malaysia's pioneering digital efforts in this realm.

Shaikh Harun reported that Terengganu has 1,336 wakaf land lots covering approximately 832 hectares, with asset values surpassing RM200 million. High-profile projects include Hotel Grand Puteri in Kuala Terengganu and the construction of chalets on land endowed by the late Sultan Omar, which will support educational endeavors.

The Wakaf Month seeks to enhance public understanding and engagement with the state's wakaf agenda, aligning with Federal Government calls through JAWHAR for increased education and promotion of wakaf initiatives. The Malaysian Journal for Islamic Studies 2025 indicates that public awareness of wakaf contributions in Terengganu lags behind other states, underscoring the importance of this initiative.