A new waqf-based (Islamic endowment) funding initiative aimed at strengthening Islamic media and dakwah (Islamic outreach and propagation) efforts was launched recently, with implementation planned in three phases to support content development, infrastructure and long-term sustainability.
The Wakaf Media Fund was introduced through a collaboration between Yayasan Waqaf Malaysia and TV AlHijrah, positioning the initiative as an alternative funding mechanism for Islamic media organisations in the country.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Religious Affairs) Zulkifli Hasan said the first phase of Wakaf Media would prioritise educational programming, including Al-Quran 104 and Hadis Sunnah 104, with the aim of enhancing public understanding of Islamic teachings.
The second phase would focus on improving facilities and providing technical support, while the final phase would involve developing media-related assets to ensure the initiative’s long-term viability.
“This is about agencies working together in coordinating and shaping the religious affairs agenda, particularly in advancing dakwah efforts,” he said after the launch.
Zulkifli said the initiative was also designed to help Islamic media organisations reduce dependence on conventional funding models by encouraging public participation through waqf contributions.
He added that salary-deduction contributions had already begun among officers within his ministry.
“We have started collecting contributions, but the initiative has not been widely promoted yet,” he said.
According to him, Wakaf Media encourages involvement not only from public servants but also from the wider public, with contributions from government-linked companies and private-sector entities welcome.
“We want people to be confident that their waqf contributions are managed transparently and produce tangible benefits,” he said.
He expressed hope that the initiative would foster a stronger culture of giving, reinforce Malaysia’s standing in modern waqf practices, and support both economic development and spiritual well-being.
