World · Malaysia Bureau
Penang Deputy CM Clarifies Egypt Delegation Did Not Use Zakat Funds
A delegation's visit to Egypt was not funded by zakat money, according to Penang's Deputy Chief Minister. He emphasised the trip should be evaluated based on its objectives, achievements, and long-term benefits to Islamic education development and student welfare.
LSN Malaysia ·
Mohamad Abdul Hamid defended a recent delegation visit to Egypt, stating that the trip did not utilise RM100,000 in zakat funds as had been claimed. The Deputy Chief Minister of Penang stressed that the delegation's activities warranted assessment based on concrete criteria rather than cost alone.
"The visit should be evaluated according to its objectives, achievements, and long-term benefits," Hamid said, emphasising the delegation's focus on advancing Islamic education development and enhancing student welfare in Penang.
The clarification comes amid scrutiny over the use of religious funds for overseas travel. Hamid's statement seeks to distinguish between the funding sources and the delegation's mandate, positioning the trip as an investment in educational outcomes rather than discretionary spending.
The Deputy Chief Minister's remarks underline the state government's commitment to transparent use of public resources, particularly those derived from religious contributions. Officials have indicated that the delegation's activities align with broader efforts to strengthen Islamic education initiatives benefiting Penang's student population.