Culture & Entertainment · Malaysia Bureau
Penang state government denies misuse of zakat funds for official trip
State authorities have rejected allegations that Islamic charitable funds were improperly used to finance a delegation visit. An assemblyman had claimed that RM100,000 was channelled into a private account linked to the trip.
LSN Malaysia ·
The Penang state government has firmly denied accusations that zakat funds were diverted to cover expenses for an official delegation to Egypt involving a former state leader. The denial comes after Penang assemblyman Yusni Mat Piah alleged that RM100,000 was deposited into the personal bank account of a committee member who participated in the visit. Yusni had questioned the appropriateness of routing charitable Islamic funds through private accounts for what he characterised as an official government trip. State officials have not provided specific details regarding the nature of the Egypt visit or the committee members involved. The allegation has raised questions about financial governance and the proper use of zakat—obligatory charitable contributions in Islam—which are typically reserved for assisting the poor and vulnerable. Authorities have indicated they will address the matter further, though no formal investigation has been announced at this time.