MAINPP Denies Allegations Over Asnaf Aid, Land Acquisitions

GEORGE TOWN, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- The Penang Islamic Religious Council (MAINPP) has denied claims circulating on social media alleging misuse of special aid and land acquisitions by Zakat Pulau Pinang (ZPP).

In a statement today, MAINPP secretary Datuk Rosidi Hussain said the council will not hesitate to take legal action against anyone spreading defamatory claims against MAINPP or its president, Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid, to protect Islamic institutions and the interests of the Muslim community in Penang.

He said RM178,368 in special assistance was approved to settle the housing loan of a poor asnaf recipient facing critical health issues and heavy family dependents, in line with maqasid syariah principles. Payments were made directly to the housing account under the name of the deceased’s wife to secure the family’s residence.

“The decision was made collectively and transparently through meetings of the Zakat Housing and Facilities Committee and the MAINPP Board, attended by 14 members, including the state Mufti,” he said.

On land acquisition, Rosidi said the process began in January 2021, undergoing investigation, valuation by the Valuation and Property Services Department (JPPH) and committee scrutiny.

Lots 240, 264 and 265 in Mukim 3, South Seberang Perai, covering 14.6918 acres and valued at RM9.86 million, were purchased using tawaquf funds to strengthen Muslim land ownership and support asnaf development. The transaction was transparent, within market value, and complied with fatwas on tawaquf use.

Rosidi added that all facts had been officially recorded in the Penang State Legislative Assembly (DUN) hansard through explanations by MAINPP president and Deputy Chief Minister I, Datuk Dr Mohamad Abdul Hamid, during the November 2025 sitting.

The clarification follows claims shared by an activist last Sunday alleging misuse of zakat funds in a state.

-- BERNAMA