SELANGOR – His Majesty Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj, Sultan of Selangor, has called upon Muslims in the state to fully appreciate and understand the essence of the Friday sermon delivered across Selangor mosques today, entitled “Zakat the Key to Blessings”.
His Majesty endorsed the preacher’s message, stressing that zakat is a vital act of worship that purifies wealth and brings prosperity.
He reminded the faithful that those who fulfil this obligation with sincerity and obedience will not only find their sustenance sufficient but also experience ease in their daily affairs.
The Sultan rejected misconceptions equating zakat with taxes or financial burdens, clarifying that it is a spiritual duty that opens the door to blessings rather than diminishing wealth.
Official figures reveal that in 2024, only 380,000 Muslims in Selangor paid zakat – representing about 20 per cent of those eligible.
This shortfall highlights that many have yet to fulfil the third pillar of Islam, possibly due to negligence, lack of awareness, or disregard for religious rulings.
The Sultan emphasised the pressing need to support the state’s large number of asnaf (eligible zakat recipients).
More than 70,000 poor and needy families in Selangor depend on zakat assistance for survival, underscoring the importance of fulfilling this obligation.
His Majesty reiterated that zakat contributions must remain within Selangor unless there is a legitimate necessity to transfer them elsewhere.
This ruling ensures that funds reach the rightful recipients and are managed in an orderly and trustworthy manner.
The sermon reinforced that zakat is not merely a religious requirement but a manifestation of faith and piety.
By fulfilling this duty, Muslims contribute to social welfare, strengthen community resilience, and uphold the values of compassion and justice.
The Sultan’s call reflects his ongoing commitment to ensuring that zakat plays its intended role in alleviating hardship and fostering harmony within Selangor’s diverse society.
