Collection and Disbursement of Zakat by MUIS

14 Mr Muhamad Faisal Bin Abdul Manap asked the Minister for Communications and Information and Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs for 2015 (a) what is the total amount of zakat collected by MUIS; (b) what is the total amount disbursed; and (c) whether there is any undisbursed amount and, if so, how much is the undisbursed amount and what is the reason for not disbursing the monies.

Assoc Prof Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: In financial year 2015, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) collected $35.3 million of zakat and disbursed $36.3 million to the eight Asnafs, or categories, as prescribed by Muslim Law. This figure is reported yearly in MUIS' Annual Report.

Annually, more than 70% of zakat is collected during the month of Ramadhan. This is the period when MUIS would have greater clarity on the zakat funds available for disbursement in the year. However, zakat disbursement is spread throughout the year. There may be a slight surplus or deficit in any particular year. To ensure the continued funding of programmes under the zakat, MUIS maintains a reserve to buffer against shortfalls and unforeseen situations which may affect collections and needs, such as an economic downturn.