KUALA LUMPUR: Perak and Selangor have announced their respective tithe rates for this year, providing clarity for Muslims in these states as they prepare for the upcoming Ramadan.
In Perak, the zakat fitrah rate varies based on the affordability of the household head, set at RM8, RM16, and RM24.
A statement issued by the office of the Chief Executive Officer of the Perak Islamic Religion and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk) stated that the RM8 rate is for those who use special local rice (5 per cent broken rice and below).
"Meanwhile, the RM16 rate applies to those consuming imported super rice, brown rice, fragrant rice, and equivalents."
For households consuming basmati rice, glutinous rice, and similar varieties, the rate is RM24.
This year's rates are slightly higher than last year's RM7, RM14, and RM21.
To facilitate payment, the Perak Islamic Religion and Malay Customs Council (MAIPk) allows tithe payments through "amil" (tithe collectors) at mosques, surau, and various other locations, including shopping complexes, markets, gas stations, and government or private offices.
Online payment options through MAIPk's Financial Process eXchange (FPX) medium, as well as the GoPayZ application, Shopee, or Maybank2u, provide added convenience for contributors.
In Selangor, the zakat fitrah rate is set at RM7, RM14, and RM21 per person, based on the type of rice consumed by households.
The Selangor Zakat Board (LZS), in a statement today, said the rate is determined by the current price of rice, considering the grade and type typically consumed by Muslims in Selangor, and is based on a measurement of one "gantang", equivalent to 2.6 kilogrammes.
LZS determines the rates by considering the current price of rice, with the minimum rate of RM7 applicable to those consuming 'Super Special Tempatan' rice.
The RM14 rate applies to those who consume 'Super Import' rice, brown rice, glutinous rice, herbal ponni and fragrant rice, while the RM21 rate is for those who consume basmati rice, Japanese rice, red rice and equivalents.
Since 2018, LZS has introduced the zakat fitrah rate based on the price of rice consumed by Muslims in Selangor, ensuring a fair and reflective approach.
The board offers several payment options, including EZakatPay, internet banking, MyEg, Pos Online portals, and popular e-wallet applications like MAE, Touch 'n Go, Selangkah, GoPayz, and Boost, to facilitate payments.
To further streamline the process, LZS has appointed 2,778 amil assistants in Selangor, providing easier access for Muslims to pay their zakat fitrah.
The board also offers its Zakat On Wheels service at strategic locations throughout Selangor, operating seven days a week, including public holidays, throughout Ramadan, to accommodate the public's zakat obligations.- Bernama