Lhokseumawe (Indnonesia) Mayor Dr. Sayuti Abu Bakar, SH, MH, along with the Head of the Lhokseumawe City Baitul Mal, Dr. Damanhur Abbas, Lc, MA, held a Zakat, Infaq, Sedekah, and Waqf (ZISWAF) socialization event for companies operating in Lhokseumawe City.
The event took place in the Lhokseumawe City Regional Secretariat (Sekdako) Hall and was attended by representatives from 64 companies.
In his remarks, Sayuti Abu Bakar emphasized that zakat is not only an individual obligation but also a corporate responsibility.
"Zakat is not just an individual act of worship, but also a corporate act of worship that has a significant impact on the social and economic development of the community," he said.
He hopes that through this outreach, companies will understand the importance of zakat in creating social justice and encouraging sustainable economic growth in Lhokseumawe City.
On that occasion, the Mayor also reminded recipients of Lhokseumawe City Baitul Mal assistance, such as the recent housing assistance, that no fees are charged. He reminded recipients to be wary of parties selling certain names, including himself, and not to be easily deceived.
Meanwhile, the Head of Lhokseumawe City Baitul Mal, Dr. Damanhur Abbas, stated that companies' compliance with ZISWAF (Zirwaf) will make a real contribution to community welfare.
"If companies are compliant in paying zakat, this will directly improve the welfare of Lhokseumawe City," he said.
According to Damanhur, the professionally managed ZISWAF funds by Baitul Mal are distributed to communities in need, accurately targeted, and without overlapping funds. They also support various community economic empowerment programs.
This outreach activity is expected to strengthen the synergy between the local government, Baitul Mal, and the private sector in realizing the welfare and prosperity of the people of Lhokseumawe City.
Damanhur quoted Allah's words, "Take a small portion of their wealth as zakat, to purify it." He explained that zakat signifies growth and development, which has a multiplier effect.
"Companies that pay zakat can increase their income, and the communities they help can prosper," Damanhur concluded.[]
