More for management than beneficiaries? Baznas clarifies zakat allocation
Jakarta, Thekabarnews.com—After the National Zakat Board (BAZNAS) of Indonesia posted its financial reports for 2023–2024 on social media, people began to criticize it. These reports indicate that...
Jakarta, Thekabarnews.com—After the National Zakat Board (BAZNAS) of Indonesia posted its financial reports for 2023–2024 on social media, people began to criticize it. These reports indicate that Amil (zakat administrators) got more money than some groups that really needed it.
In 2023, BAZNAS gave amil about Rp83.16 billion, fakir (poor people) about Rp55.55 billion, and gharimin (people who owe money and need it) about Rp350.9 million.
The same thing happened again in 2024. The report says that the amount of money for family-related projects rose to about Rp107.65 billion. People who owed money got Rp1.54 billion, and poor people got Rp63.81 billion.
Many people discussed the numbers right away. Furthermore, many people questioned whether the distribution of zakat money aligns with its primary objective of assisting impoverished communities.
The BAZNAS said that the financial report was real in response to the concerns. Furthermore, they clarified that the “amil funds” category encompasses more than just salaries or benefits for staff.
Baznas’ Head of Fund Collection, Rizaludin Kurniawan, said the funds also cover operational expenses needed to distribute zakat effectively.
“The funds set aside for the amil category are not all used for salaries, allowances, or direct support for administrators,” Rizaludin said in an official statement on Wednesday, March 18.
He said that the Amil budget includes costs for running the organization, such as infrastructure, logistics, administrative systems, and outreach programs. Islamic guidelines allow administrators to include these expenses when managing zakat.
BAZNAS also said that effective management is essential for making sure that zakat money goes to the right people and stays there. Furthermore, the BAZNAS said that operational support is necessary to maintain high levels of service quality, accountability, and openness.
The problem is clearer now. However, it still shows how important it is to be more clear about the different types of zakat. People say that the best way to keep individuals trusting the groups that handle religious money is to be honest.
The debate also reflects growing public awareness of financial accountability in charitable organizations. This principle is particularly true for organizations handling large-scale national funds.
Indonesian people asked for more detailed reports that show how much money goes directly to beneficiaries. They also want to know how much it costs to run the business. This would help people understand better how the zakat money is spent.
As discussions continue, BAZNAS reiterated its commitment to improving transparency and strengthening public confidence. At the same time, they are ensuring that zakat distribution remains aligned with its social and religious objectives.
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