The iKerjaya Training Course (KliK) is specifically developed to empower asnaf through communication skills, technology, and work readiness. Key programmes organised under KLiK include Kem Bangkit Kerja, Ready to Hire, and Smart Leadership & Effective Communication.

KLiK aims to build character and provide participants with essential career skills, while also enhancing motivation and exposing them to employment opportunities. This initiative also creates opportunities for second-generation asnaf who have fallen behind academically, particularly those who have completed the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM).

Among the approaches implemented are briefing sessions and interviews with employer representatives on the final day of the course, providing participants with direct exposure to available career opportunities.

The Train & Work Programme (LDK) helps participants, particularly second-generation asnaf, build self-confidence and open pathways to the world of employment. Through a combination of skills training and work experience, participants are equipped with technical skills, soft skills, and career preparation aligned with industry requirements.

Upon completing the training, participants are matched with strategic employers for job opportunities, industrial training, or direct placement. This approach provides participants with the chance to become self-reliant, earn an income, and plan for a better future through collaboration with accredited training providers and strategic partners from both the public and private sectors.

The iKerjaya Career Carnival Programme is implemented through an on-the-ground approach to ensure that asnaf are not left behind in accessing employment opportunities. The programme provides a clear and progressive career pathway, beginning with screening, skills training, and leading up to job placement.

With the involvement of employers and employment agencies offering job opportunities by district, iKerjaya serves as a practical job-matching platform for asnaf who are underprivileged, poor, or converts. Career development initiatives and skills programmes are also carried out to enhance participants’ employability and income opportunities.

Overall, iKerjaya helps asnaf access employment opportunities and supports efforts to improve their standard of living. The programme is specifically for asnaf registered under Zakat Selangor.

The Employment Incentive Scheme (SKiP) provides financial support and reward-based incentives to asnaf who participate in skills and career training, and subsequently secure employment. These incentives act as a catalyst to ensure stable income and motivate participants to maintain consistent employment.

Asnaf Entrepreneurship Monitoring & Coaching Programme is established to ensure that every business assistance provided has a real impact on the lives of asnaf. This programme focuses on continuous monitoring, guidance, and support to help asnaf entrepreneurs strengthen the businesses they have started.

Assessments are also conducted to evaluate the feasibility, competitiveness, and growth potential of the businesses undertaken. At the same time, training needs are identified so that asnaf entrepreneurs are empowered with the skills, knowledge, and management capabilities required to continue developing as self-reliant individuals.

Business Capital Assistance is established to help asnaf entrepreneurs among the poor, underprivileged, and converts take their first steps in business. Through start-up financial support and targeted business assistance, opportunities are provided for them to build a stable daily income, support their livelihoods, and gradually improve their socio-economic standard of living.

The capital provided is allocated according to the actual needs of the business, with continuous monitoring to ensure that the assistance has a real impact. This approach not only helps asnaf entrepreneurs start their businesses but also supports them in managing and growing their enterprises independently.

To meet these needs, various forms of support are provided depending on the type of business. These include working capital, business equipment, vehicles, deposits and premises construction, asset repairs, stock for sale, and rental arrears. For certain sectors, assistance also covers planting seeds, livestock breeds, fertilisers, and pesticides. Each form of support is provided in accordance with the nature of the business and the recipient’s needs to ensure sustainable and impactful returns.

The types of businesses undertaken by asnaf entrepreneurs include food, retail, manufacturing, services, livestock, fisheries, and agriculture. These business areas are chosen in line with their skills, experience, and interests, providing an opportunity to build more stable and competitive enterprises as a step towards a more self-reliant life.

Entrepreneurship Training is provided based on the level of knowledge, skills, interests, and type of business managed by asnaf. This approach ensures that each training session is practical and relevant, enabling asnaf to manage and grow their businesses with greater confidence.

The training is systematically planned, including the development of modules, organisation of programmes, and involvement of experienced speakers or facilitators. Monitoring is also carried out to ensure that the knowledge shared can be directly applied in real business situations.

These efforts are reinforced through the Entrepreneur Mentoring Programme, where asnaf receive close guidance from experienced mentors. Through the sharing of experience and ongoing support, this programme helps build confidence, refine decision-making skills, and strengthen the capacity of asnaf to progress successfully in the business world.

Product Marketing for Asnaf Entrepreneurs focuses on providing space and opportunities for their products to be introduced to a wider market. Various marketing platforms are identified and utilised, encompassing physical channels such as exhibitions and community markets, as well as digital channels including online platforms and social media, to help increase market reach and product sales.

These efforts are further supported through improvements in product quality, particularly in terms of packaging, branding, compliance with standards, and production quality. Through this approach, the products of asnaf entrepreneurs are empowered to present themselves with greater confidence, compete more effectively in the market, and gradually build customer trust.

Beginning with an SPM qualification, Mohd Ilyas Adam proved that success is not defined by where one starts, but by the courage to rise and change. With consistent determination, he actively participated in various self-development programmes to build confidence and equip himself with the skills needed to enter the workforce.

One of the key milestones in his journey was his participation in the UOA Academy Professional Hospitality Certification Programme, a collaboration between Zakat Selangor and Khazanah Nasional. Through this programme, Mohd Ilyas not only gained exposure to industrial training but also developed a clear understanding of the realities of the working world, which demands daily discipline, strong work ethics, and resilience. He further strengthened his readiness for employment by completing the Asnaf Career Initiative Training Course (KLiK), which enhanced his communication skills, use of technology, and basic workplace preparedness.

As a result of his sustained commitment and discipline, Mohd Ilyas has successfully built a career as an Operations Executive at Fast Event Sdn. Bhd. Even more commendable, he achieved this as a registered person with disabilities (mild autism), breaking stigma and proving that limitations are not barriers to success when opportunities are provided and effort remains consistent.

Mohd Ilyas’s story reflects how the right opportunities, combined with continuous effort and targeted support, can transform lives. It is not merely a story of individual achievement, but one of renewed hope—for oneself, for family, and for a life journey that continues to move forward.

Mohd Faizal Ayob began his business journey in a small workshop behind a house in Puchong Permai. In that modest space, he developed his skills step by step—learning through real hands-on experience and proving that woodworking could become a viable source of livelihood.

However, his aspirations went beyond meeting daily needs. In April 2021, a collaborative workspace was established, featuring a more organised, well-equipped workshop with room to grow. Located at Lot 5195, Jalan Bakawali, Kampung Pasir Baru, Puchong, the workshop evolved into a centre for woodworking services, prototype development, and furniture repair. It became a place where ideas were tested, quality was refined, and new opportunities began to emerge.

What makes Mohd Faizal’s journey truly meaningful is the approach he upholds. His business was built not solely for personal gain, but as a platform to benefit the wider community. His active involvement in community initiatives led to the establishment of a social enterprise through entrepreneurship programmes by SME Corp and Yayasan Inovasi Malaysia. From there, his engagement expanded into community development programmes—empowering youth from PPR communities around the Klang Valley and building collaborative networks with various stakeholders. Each programme became more than just an “activity”; it became a space of hope—where young people gained opportunities, communities rebuilt confidence, and skills became a catalyst for change.

These efforts have been supported through collaborations with various agencies, including CIMB Foundation, Majlis Bandaraya Subang Jaya (MBSJ), Kuala Lumpur City Hall, Yayasan Telekom Malaysia, as well as Members of Parliament and State Assembly offices. Today, Mohd Faizal’s business has grown into a strategic partner for several agencies and local authorities, including ThinkCity, PNB Merdeka Ventures, Yayasan TM, MBSJ, and Yayasan Inovasi Malaysia—clear proof that craftsmanship which began behind a home can earn trust at the collaboration table.

With the support of MBSJ, his business now operates from a more conducive workshop space at Kompleks 3C, Subang Jaya. Operations are more structured, opportunities continue to expand, and the direction for growth is clearer. From a small backyard workshop, Mr Faizal has built a journey that uplifts skills, honours craftsmanship, and delivers lasting value to the community.

Mohamed Azeman Mat Sum’s business began modestly in the kitchen of his home in Kapar, Klang. Driven by a desire for self-reliance, he attended a keropok lekor production course organised by the Department of Fisheries. From there, his confidence grew—he began producing his own keropok lekor, starting from sourcing fresh fish, carefully processing the ingredients, right through to creating finished products he could take pride in.

This small home-based effort soon opened the door to greater opportunities. Mohamed Azeman was given the chance to rent a shop by the Klang Municipal Council (MBK) at a monthly rental of RM150. Located along Jalan Pasar Malam Dua, the shop became a “second home” for his growing dreams. It was not only a production space, but also a display and sales outlet where he connected with loyal customers, including school canteen operators and local residents who increasingly recognised the quality of his handmade products.

To ensure the shop remained operational and sales continued to grow, he also offered frozen food products from external vendors as additional options for customers. This strategy helped diversify his offerings and attract more buyers.

Step by step, beginning with the knowledge gained from training courses and the courage to try, Mohamed Azeman built his business through hard work and perseverance. The income earned from his own labour and fish-based products became the foundation for supporting his family, with the hope that this venture will continue to grow and provide stability for the future.

The Higher Education Scholarship Assistance (Domestic) is an initiative designed to help ease the financial burden for students from Fakir, Miskin, and Mualaf asnaf families who are pursuing full-time studies at higher education institutions (IPT) or skills training institutes (ILK) within the country. The assistance covers tuition fees as well as Educational Needs Support, provided throughout the students’ foundational study period.

This support ensures that students can continue their full-time studies without financial obstacles, reducing the risk of dropping out, while increasing their chances of academic success and future employability as graduates.

The Minor Scholarship by Zakat Selangor (MAIS) is an educational support initiative designed to assist Fakir, Miskin, and Mualaf asnaf students attending fully residential schools such as Sekolah Berasrama Penuh (SBP), Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM), and Sekolah Agama Menengah JAIS. The scholarship aims to cover daily learning needs, allowing students to focus entirely on their studies without being burdened by financial concerns.

This support also addresses the financial challenges faced by asnaf families, ensuring the continuity of their children’s education in fully residential schools. By doing so, it contributes directly to developing knowledgeable, skilled, and competitive human capital for the future.

The Huffaz Scholarship is an educational support initiative designed to help ease the financial burden for students of the Quranic memorisation (tahfiz) programme who are enrolled in full-time studies. This assistance covers part of the monthly tuition fees, enabling students to focus entirely on memorising and studying the Quran without financial constraints.

Provided annually, this support helps produce more knowledgeable, disciplined, and morally upright Huffaz, thereby strengthening Islamic educational institutions and ensuring the preservation of the Quran in the state of Selangor.

The Zakat Adopted School Programme (PROSAZ) is an educational development initiative designed to empower schools in nurturing the potential of Fakir and Miskin asnaf students holistically. The programme provides incentives to school management teams that are committed to coordinating and organising various development programmes covering academic, skills, spiritual, and emotional aspects, aimed at the well-being and excellence of asnaf students.

PROSAZ is implemented in schools registered under the Selangor State Education Department (JPNS) or the Selangor Islamic Religious Department (JAIS) that have at least 30 registered Fakir and Miskin asnaf students currently attending school. The programme indirectly supports schools as strategic partners in developing well-rounded, competitive human capital among asnaf students.

The Al-Biruni Innovation and Learning Centre by Zakat Selangor has been developed and operates at three locations: PPR Desa Mentari, Petaling Jaya (2019); Tanjong Karang (2021); and Pangsapuri Enggang, Bandar Kinrara, Puchong (2024). These centres are initiatives by Zakat Selangor to provide safe spaces for children from the urban poor (asnaf), with the aim of improving academic achievement and addressing social issues through a variety of daily programmes and activities. Originating from the need to provide a safe, conducive and focused learning environment, Al-Biruni has transformed community residential units into one-stop centres that support learning, guidance, and holistic human capital development. Through an integrated approach involving implementing partners, the local community, and strategic collaborations with corporate partners, this project creates opportunities for urban asnaf children to develop their potential, strengthen their identity, and break free from the cycle of poverty towards a brighter and more competitive future.

Continuous support from Zakat Selangor has been a crucial strength for Patih Fauzi Bahar, an asnaf child from Gombak, in completing his higher education with excellence. During challenging times, including the Covid-19 pandemic, this support allowed him to keep moving forward without succumbing to circumstances.

Since 2020, Patih Fauzi has received the Higher Education Scholarship Assistance (BDPT) and Educational Needs Assistance (BKP), covering tuition fees, allowances, accommodation, reference books, and learning materials. This enabled him to fully focus on his studies despite facing various challenges.

Through persistent effort, Patih Fauzi successfully completed his Physics degree at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) in 2025. His journey also opened international opportunities, as he undertook an industrial training placement in battery research at Academia Sinica, Taiwan—a valuable experience that broadened his professional skills and perspective.

Today, Patih Fauzi has embarked on his career as a SoC Design Engineer at Logikhaus. His story demonstrates how structured educational support, combined with personal dedication, can pave the way for a brighter future, benefiting not only the individual but also society as a whole.

Siti Nur Madinah is a child from an underprivileged asnaf family in Kalumpang, Hulu Selangor. From the start, life did not offer an easy path. Yet, she chose to move forward, turning challenges into motivation to build a better future. With the support of the Higher Education Scholarship Assistance (BDPT), she proved that life’s limitations are not a barrier to pursuing education and hope.

Armed with determination and continuous educational support, Siti Nur Madinah successfully completed her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences (Anthropology and Da’wah) at Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA). Her hard work paid off with a CGPA of 3.69 and the Ibnu Khaldun Medal, recognising her commitment and discipline throughout her studies.

Today, Siti Nur Madinah’s journey reflects a remarkable transformation. From a student raised in hardship, she now steps into the professional world as a TV Programme Producer at the Institut Kefahaman Islam Malaysia (IKIM). In addition, she is active as a radio presenter and master of ceremonies, and has contributed as a motivational speaker at Penjara Marang. She has stood on more than 50 stages—not for luxury, but through knowledge, perseverance, and the character she has built from life experiences.

Siti Nur Madinah’s story demonstrates how the right educational support, combined with relentless effort, can open doors to change. It is not merely a personal success story but a testament to the potential that can be realised when opportunity meets determination.

While many students his age were fully focused on exam preparation, Muhammad Zaki Yap Abdul Salam faced a life-altering challenge when he lost his beloved father a year before sitting for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations. Yet, this hardship did not break his spirit. Instead, Zaki turned his grief into a source of strength, continuing to move forward and pursue success.

With the full support of his mother, who ran a small business, Zaki remained focused on his studies despite numerous challenges. He also participated in the Zakat Selangor Adopted School Programme (PROSAZ), which provided academic guidance, moral support, and the motivational boost he needed throughout his academic journey.

Although he had previously failed Mathematics in the trial exams, Zaki did not give up. Through persistent effort, he achieved a perfect 9As in the actual SPM examinations. This remarkable success not only brought pride to his school and family but also demonstrated the effectiveness of the continuous support provided through PROSAZ.

“I want to continue succeeding for my late father and my mother, who have sacrificed so much for me. PROSAZ helped me rise and believe in myself,” said Muhammad Zaki.

Zaki’s achievement proves that with the right support, strong determination, and unwavering perseverance, children from asnaf families can achieve excellence and transform their future.

Born as the youngest of seven siblings in a low-income family, Muhammad Shafi Yusuf Abd Rahman carried the hopes of his family from a young age. Their life was modest, with a retired father and a mother working as a caregiver to support the family’s daily needs.

In the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) trial examinations, Shafi obtained only 4As and failed Mathematics. However, this result was not the end—it became a turning point, motivating him to rise and prove his abilities.

With strong determination and continuous guidance through the Zakat Selangor Adopted School Programme (PROSAZ), Shafi made remarkable progress. His consistent effort and discipline paid off when he achieved a perfect 9As in the actual SPM examinations.

The PROSAZ programme played a crucial role in enhancing Shafi’s academic performance and character development. Through extra classes, motivational sessions, and spiritual reinforcement, he built self-confidence, improved his academic weaknesses, and transformed failure into a proud achievement.

“PROSAZ gave me a new light in life. Without the guidance and care provided, I might not have achieved this success,” said Shafi.

Shafi’s success proves that poverty is not the end of one’s dreams. With comprehensive support, relentless effort, and an unwavering fighting spirit, children from asnaf families can rise to achieve excellence and build a brighter, more meaningful future.

The Fardhu ‘Ain Classes for Mualaf (KFAM) programme provides a foundational educational platform designed specifically to guide mualaf in understanding and practising the obligations of Islam in a structured, step-by-step, and easy-to-follow manner. The programme is conducted both physically and online, organised by district, to ensure flexible, inclusive, and comprehensive access to learning.

The curriculum covers Ulum Syariyyah, with an emphasis on Tawhid and Fiqh, structured across Levels 1 to 3. This approach ensures that learning takes place systematically and effectively, aligned with the understanding and needs of the mualaf.

Through the programme, efforts to strengthen comprehension and appreciation of Fardhu ‘Ain are realised as the cornerstone of religious life. Continuous guidance and monitoring are also provided to support the holistic development of converts. Additionally, the programme plays a vital role in reinforcing self-identity and building the confidence of mualaf as Muslims, enabling them to lead a life grounded in Islamic values and principles with assurance and consistency.

The Mualaf Asnaf Induction Course Scholarship (KIAM) is an initial initiative designed to provide mualaf with essential information, guidance, and basic understanding during the early stages of embracing Islam. The programme emphasises an introduction to the roles, functions, and responsibilities of relevant agencies involved in the conversion process, helping mualaf understand the available support structures and adapt to their new life as Muslims.

Through a comprehensive approach, the programme focuses on understanding the rights and responsibilities of mualaf, raising awareness of the importance of post-conversion support, and identifying appropriate developmental needs. In addition, data collection and profiling of mualaf are conducted to support more focused, structured, and impactful planning and implementation of development initiatives.

These courses are introduced to meet the early educational needs of individuals who have newly embraced Islam, as well as those who are still in the process of learning about Islam. They provide structured and comprehensive guidance to help participants understand the fundamental principles of Islam, while adapting to a new identity and way of life as a Muslim.

The courses are conducted at Baitul Hikmah, which serves as a training centre for new converts. Overall, a total of 24 different courses have been designed and implemented to comprehensively address the early educational needs of mualaf in a structured manner, with programmes organised according to ethnic background.

Through a systematic, progressive and supportive learning approach, these courses aim to strengthen understanding of Islamic faith (aqidah), build self-confidence, and foster spiritual stability during the early stages of embracing Islam. The courses also motivate mualaf to deepen their understanding of Islamic teachings with confidence, to comprehend Islam in its true meaning without doubt, and to strengthen their commitment in order to remain steadfast in their religious life.

Overall, these courses play a vital role in nurturing Muslims who understand, love, and firmly uphold the teachings of Islam, thereby laying the foundation for a life that is blessed and pleasing to Allah.

Had Ta’lif is a form of assessment based on established criteria and mechanisms to determine whether a new convert has passed the period during which material assistance, guidance, and religious education are required.

This assessment aims to ensure that the level of understanding, internalisation, and practice of Islam among new converts is sufficient to sustain their faith continuously, in accordance with the Fatwa on the Had Period for New Converts in the State of Selangor, which is set at five years.

In general, the rights and needs of new converts are divided into two main aspects. First, religious rights, which include guidance in the fundamentals of Islam and support in practising Islamic teachings properly. Second, social rights, which encompass basic needs such as food and drink, housing and shelter, health care, safety, education, and access to communication facilities.

The life journey of Saqeef Ramanathan, a convert to Islam, has been filled with significant challenges. Separated from his original family after embracing Islam, he nonetheless carried the responsibility of supporting two children, while also facing the pressures of living costs, rent, and tuition fees in Petaling Jaya.

His difficult financial situation began to improve when he received the Educational Scholarship and Monthly Assistance from Zakat Selangor. This zakat support gave him the space to organise his life more calmly and focus on the future.

In 2024, Saqeef commenced his PhD in Islam Hadhari at the National University of Malaysia (UKM), fully sponsored by zakat. His dedication and contributions as a convert were also recognised when he was awarded the Special Mualaf Award by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), following a nomination by Zakat Selangor. This recognition became a significant moral boost in continuing his efforts in da’wah and personal development.

In his professional career, he serves as a History Teacher at the Selangor Islamic Religious Department and as the Chief SPM History Coach under PPD Petaling Utama. He is also a former student of KFAM Zakat Selangor.

With zakat support, Saqeef Ramanathan’s life journey has transformed from hardship to self-reliance, proving that zakat not only alleviates burdens but also acts as a catalyst for developing knowledgeable, competitive individuals who are capable of contributing back to both religion and society.

The Academic Development programme is implemented holistically, emphasizing the strengthening of cognitive skills, learning abilities, and motivation among participants. It is designed to support continuous and comprehensive academic excellence.

Implementation includes key initiatives such as the Bitara Excellence Programme, intensive classes, and programs focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Each initiative is systematically structured to enhance understanding, mastery of skills, and enthusiasm for learning, ultimately nurturing students who are competitive and have high potential.

The Character Development program focuses on shaping attitudes, behavior, discipline, and positive values to nurture individuals who are balanced emotionally, socially, and spiritually. The program is designed to strengthen self-identity and build a resilient personality in alignment with Islamic values.

Implementation of the Character Development program includes initiatives such as the Self-Identity Program, Quran Halaqah Classes, Religious Lectures, Taranum Classes, and reinforcement of Fardu Ain understanding. Each initiative is structured progressively and continuously to ensure that acquired knowledge is effectively translated into daily practice.

Leadership development is a program that focuses on building leadership skills, strengthening self-identity as a leader, decision-making abilities, and the capacity to positively influence others. This program is designed to cultivate individuals who are confident, disciplined, and authoritative.

The implementation of this program includes skills classes as well as self-discipline training such as archery and silat (traditional martial arts), which not only develop physical and mental strength but also instill values of discipline, focus, and responsibility in the participants.

The Baitus Salam Education programme is a structured educational initiative specifically designed for mualaf asnaf to support their adaptation process, strengthen Islamic understanding, and foster holistic personal development. The program focuses on building foundational knowledge, enhancing self-confidence, shaping character, and developing life skills within a safe, supportive, and continuous environment.

The programme is implemented through the provision of learning modules, training courses, and skills development programs, systematically arranged to ensure that mualaf can engage in the learning and personal development process in a more guided and effective manner.

The Community Icon programme aims to cultivate community icons among mualaf asnaf, who serve as support agents, role models, and catalysts for the development of their local communities. The program is designed to empower participants with leadership values, self-confidence, and the ability to interact positively within society.

Implementation of the Community Icon poragramme includes initiatives in leadership, self-management, and community integration, carried out progressively and continuously to shape individuals who are reputable, resilient, and capable of making a positive impact on their surrounding communities.

The Bait Al-Mawaddah Health Program aims to enhance the physical, mental, and social well-being of senior citizens through an integrated and holistic healthcare approach. The program emphasises disease prevention, continuous health monitoring, psychosocial support, and healthy lifestyle practices to ensure residents can lead a comfortable, active, and independent life for as long as possible.

Activities under the program include aerobics, SEHATI (Healthy Community), and initiatives such as blood sugar control, healthy body, and perfect worship, all structured to support overall well-being and continuously improve the quality of life for senior residents.

The Bait Al-Mawaddah Spiritual Program is implemented to strengthen the spiritual well-being of senior citizens through the practice of worship, Quranic reflection, religious talks, and socially engaging activities grounded in Islamic values. The program is designed to help residents lead a more peaceful, meaningful, and balanced spiritual life.

Activities under the program include Fiqh of Prayer, Healthy Prayer Courses, and Religious Lectures, organised progressively to enhance understanding, appreciation, and practical application of worship in daily life.

Muhammad Nur Amin Norhisyam is the eldest of seven siblings and was raised in a modest family in the Damansara area. Before the birth of his youngest sibling, he was the only son in the family, carrying the responsibility of being a role model and a source of hope for his younger brothers and sisters.

From primary school, Amin demonstrated outstanding academic achievements. He obtained 8A in the KAFA Class Assessment (UPKK) and later achieved Mumtaz in the Primary Religious School Assessment (PSRA). These accomplishments reflect not only his academic ability but also his discipline and dedication to learning.

Amin began living at Baitul Hasanah in Year 5, a pivotal period for his personal development and character formation. At the institution, he was known as a quiet and reserved student. However, his calm and humble nature often surprised teachers, as he consistently provided accurate and mature answers, proving the saying, “still waters run deep.”

The secret to Amin’s success lies in his consistent preparation and disciplined approach to learning. He enjoys filling his free time with reading, particularly books on history. This habit not only expands his knowledge but also trains him to think systematically and maintain discipline. His ability to remain composed, even during final examinations, has been a key factor in maintaining his academic performance.

Despite a modest family background—his father works as a labourer and his mother as a telemarketer at RHB—the sacrifices and hard work of his parents have motivated Amin to strive for success. His mother’s hope for him to grow up as a successful child has been a constant source of inspiration.

Through sustained effort and a supportive environment, Amin successfully continued his education at Maktab Rendah Sains MARA (MRSM) Pengkalan Chepa, Kelantan, a testament to his considerable potential.

Amin aspires to become a medical doctor, driven by a deep interest in the field and a desire to serve the community. With his calm, disciplined, and knowledgeable character, he possesses a strong foundation to realise his dreams in the future.

Arivisa hails from Selangor and is of Orang Asli Mah Meri descent, the fifth of six siblings. Growing up in a family that valued education provided the foundation for her academic success from an early age, including outstanding achievements in UPSR and SPM results that exceeded her personal targets.

She went on to study at Pahang Matriculation College before pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Conservation Biology at Universiti Malaysia Sabah, followed by a Master’s Degree in the same field at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. After completing her studies, Arivisa worked as a kindergarten teacher and later embraced Islam, continuing her religious education at Baitus Salam.

During her time at Baitus Salam, Arivisa not only strengthened her religious knowledge but also developed the skills and confidence to serve her community. She actively shares her experiences and motivates Orang Asli children in Kampung Orang Asli Pertak through educational programmes and activities that apply knowledge to everyday life.

Arivisa’s story demonstrates that continuous education and dedication to learning can open doors to personal success while creating meaningful contributions to society.

Safwan is an asnaf child born in Subang, Selangor, and the fifth of eight siblings. He was the only family member to reside at Bait Al-Hasanah from 2010, at the age of 11, as part of the first intake of the hostel. Growing up in a family with limited means—his mother working as a caretaker and his father as a security guard—Safwan faced numerous challenges. However, the support from Zakat Selangor greatly alleviated his family’s burdens. In 2026, Safwan faced the loss of his beloved mother, yet he remained steadfast in continuing his life journey.

He often excelled in leadership, being appointed head of the hostel students almost three times and later becoming head student of his secondary school at the age of 17.

After completing his SPM, Safwan pursued Matriculation in Banting and later a Bachelor’s Degree in Islamic Finance at Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Terengganu, graduating with a CGPA of 3.33 and building an independent life from a young age.

Safwan’s career began by taking on small jobs and selling frozen cakes before being offered a position as a Unit Trust Consultant at Public Mutual Berhad. Despite facing significant early challenges without a fixed salary, his diligence and consistency paid off. Today, after five years in the industry, Safwan enjoys a stable five-figure income, owns assets, and leads a balanced lifestyle.

Safwan’s success proves that a modest background is not a barrier to achievement. With determination, discipline, and consistent action, every hardship can become a stepping stone toward a better life.

The life and educational journey of Soffiyah binti Muhammad began with numerous challenges, particularly after embracing Islam. At that time, she was still adapting to her new way of life while facing various family and personal difficulties. In search of a more positive and supportive environment, she joined Baitus Salam, which later became a pivotal turning point in her life.

During her approximately one year and eight months at Baitus Salam, she gained valuable experiences that shaped her not only in terms of religious understanding but also in character development, discipline, and soft skills. She participated in various activities such as archery, cooking, and event management, and was entrusted with the role of Master of Ceremonies (MC) for several programmes. These experiences significantly boosted her self-confidence and communication skills. Additionally, she represented the institution in the National Islamic Charity Competition (Maharajan) in the quiz category and secured fourth place, further strengthening her confidence and motivation.

After this formative period, Soffiyah continued her academic journey by pursuing a Diploma in Psychology at Universiti Selangor, marking an excellent start to her higher education. She is currently in her fourth semester and, Alhamdulillah, has consistently achieved outstanding academic results, receiving the Dean’s Award each semester.

She greatly appreciates the support, opportunities, and trust given by Zakat Selangor, which have enabled her to move forward with confidence as a student and future graduate. Her journey and achievements are hoped to serve as inspiration for the community to remain resilient and committed in pursuing their goals, even when faced with challenges.

On 30 September 2023, Bait Al-Hasanah became the gathering place for a journey revisited. The Zakat Selangor Alumni Programme brought together 30 alumni who were former residents of Bait Al-Hasanah and recipients of Zakat Selangor’s scholarship assistance—individuals who have since progressed and achieved success in their respective fields.

This reunion was more than a visit; it was an opportunity to give back. The establishment of the Zakat Selangor Alumni opens doors for alumni to contribute their experience, time, and effort, while also serving as mentors and sources of inspiration for current asnaf students shaping their futures at Bait Al-Hasanah. Through collaborative activities such as decorating dormitory rooms and painting staircases, alumni and residents together brightened the living spaces that were once part of their own life journeys.

The programme was further enlivened with recreational activities and landscaping efforts, including planting flowers around the dormitory. In this relaxed and meaningful setting, the bonds formed not only strengthened friendships but also rekindled memories from the time when alumni themselves were in similar phases of life.

As a symbol of this ongoing connection, the LZS Alumni Club, FriendZS, was introduced as the official platform to strengthen the alumni network and support continuous asnaf development. More than just a club, FriendZS represents a journey that flows uninterrupted—from receiving support, to building a life, and ultimately, giving back to the next generation.