ZAWFI 2026

In an era marked by increasing global uncertainties such as economic crises, geopolitical conflicts, climate change, pandemics, rising living costs, and widening poverty gaps, Islamic philanthropy has emerged as a vital instrument for sustainable socio-economic development and social protection, particularly for vulnerable communities. Despite its historical contribution to education, healthcare, housing, public infrastructure, and social welfare throughout Islamic civilisation, Islamic philanthropy today faces challenges related to governance inefficiencies, regulatory constraints, limited financial innovation, and public trust.

Recognising these challenges and opportunities, the Institute of Zakat and Waqf Malaysia (IKaZ), Academy of Contemporary Islamic Studies (ACIS), Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), will organise the 7th International Conference on Zakat, Waqf and Islamic Philanthropy (ZAWFI 2026) under the theme “Islamic Philanthropy Instruments for Sustainable Development: Empowering VBI-Driven Governance and Agentic Digital Innovation” as a platform for scholars, policymakers, industry practitioners, religious institutions, NGOs, and Islamic fintech stakeholders to explore innovative approaches, governance frameworks, and policy solutions that can strengthen Islamic philanthropy as a sustainable driver of socio-economic development.