By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, July 27: The International Waqf Da’wah Convention 2026 today proposed the establishment of a Working Consultancy Group to strengthen waqf governance, one of three key resolutions aimed at modernising waqf institutions through better governance, technology adoption and strategic collaboration.
Sarawak Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, who is also Malaysian Islamic Welfare Organisation (PERKIM) president, said the proposed group would review and explore value-added improvements to the management structure of waqf institutions to ensure they remain relevant and impactful.
He said the second resolution calls for the full utilisation of technology through digital platforms capable of connecting funding, expertise, innovation and collaborative networks to expand the reach of waqf and dakwah across borders.
The third resolution advocates a comprehensive effort to strengthen the entire waqf ecosystem, covering governance, digitalisation, human capital development, shariah-compliant investments, innovation and strategic collaboration involving governments, Islamic religious institutions, the corporate sector, academia and the wider community.
“We hope that the federal government, state governments, State Islamic Religious Councils, waqf institutions, the corporate sector and other stakeholders would jointly consider and refine the proposals to build a modern, sustainable and high-impact waqf ecosystem,” he said when speaking at the closing ceremony of the convention at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) today, broadcast live by PERKIM Kebangsaan on Facebook.
Abang Johari said the three resolutions are more than a list of recommendations, describing them as a blueprint for positioning waqf as a driver of economic development, innovation, social solutions and national progress.
“When waqf is managed with integrity, led by expertise and empowered through technology, its benefits will transcend geographical boundaries, races and generations. This is the spirit of Islam — to build, unite and bring mercy to all mankind,” he said.
Abang Johari noted that the resolutions were formulated in response to a rapidly changing global landscape shaped by digitalisation, artificial intelligence (AI), economic transformation, geopolitical uncertainty and evolving social challenges.
“If waqf was able to build Islamic civilisation during its golden age, then waqf can also become the catalyst for the revival of the ummah in the 21st century,” he added. — DayakDaily
