Jakarta (ANTARA) - The National Alms Agency (Baznas) has called for synergy and collaboration between zakat (alms) management institutions to alleviate poverty in Indonesia.
At a national-level work meeting of zakat management institutions here on Tuesday, Baznas head Noor Achmad said that the synergy is crucial because Indonesia has Rp327 trillion (around US$21.03 billion) in zakat, infak (donation), and sedekah (voluntary charity).
"Good management and synergy between Baznas and zakat management institutions across Indonesia are needed," he added.
He noted that the collaboration can be realized through the work meeting, which is themed "Synergy of Zakat Management for Poverty Alleviation and Welfare."
"The goal is to synergize steps in managing zakat nationally because we also need to convey to the President how we explore the zakat potential in Indonesia as well as its management in poverty alleviation," Achmad explained.
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He expressed the hope that the meeting will be a beginning for his agency and the zakat management institutions across Indonesia to synergize and collaborate in welcoming 2025.
At Tuesday's meeting, Religious Affairs Minister Yaqut Cholil Qoumas highlighted the big potential of zakat, infak, and sedekah, which has not been tapped maximally in the country.
"Just imagine, Rp300 trillion, while Baznas has only set a target of Rp41 trillion (around US$2.63 billion)," he said.
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The minister expressed appreciation for the efforts made by Baznas as a driving force for poverty alleviation efforts and improving community welfare.
One of the efforts, he said, has been the ease of licensing offered by Baznas concerning the formation of zakat management institutions. The move is aimed at maximizing the potential of zakat, infak, and sedekah governance in Indonesia, he added.
"Collaboration with the government is crucial. The government has opened the door wide for licensing for zakat management institutions in Indonesia," Qoumas said.