The role of waqf in combating Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract EN

Most of the country worldwide, including Malaysia, are affected by covid-19 pandemic, impacting daily life, health security, public safety, and economic security.

the main challenges faced by the Malaysian government is in preparing the prihatin economic stimulus package (esp) that will provide immediate assistance to lessen the burden of all, especially those who are affected during the pandemics.

the main issue is should the responsibility of caring for the pandemic be placed solely on the government.

hence, this paper aims to evaluate the role of waqf mechanism in the sustainable health development of communities in Malaysia as a financial aid for those affected by the pandemic and suggest the method of its implementation.

a qualitative methodology was employed to analyse the data through descriptive and comparative methods.

the research finding reveals that the effective waqf governance is not limited to the state Islamic religious council (main) as a general nazir; in fact, its role should be extended to community participation as a special nazir or mutawalli.

the importance of shared governance and responsibility could create sustainable management of the health system, especially in financial aids, fundraising, and could foster a cooperative and volunteerism culture among the community.