Kota Kinabalu: The introduction of a two-tier zakat fitrah rate in Sabah is expected to boost collections and enable broader assistance for the poor and needy, said Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Isnin Aliasnih.
He said the move reflects current living standards, noting that more people can now afford premium fragrant rice compared to regular white rice, which previously formed the basis for zakat calculations.
This year marks the first time Sabah has implemented two zakat fitrah rates, he added.
“As rice prices have changed and many people are able to purchase fragrant rice, we decided to offer two payment options.
“I believe this is a progressive step taken by the Sabah Zakat Centre and it is the best approach,” he said.
Isnin said this when met by reporters at the Declaration Ceremony of the 2026 Zakat Fitrah Rate, corresponding to 1447 Hijrah, which was announced and officiated by MUIS President Datuk Seri Yahya Hussin here on Tuesday.
Also present were Sabah Mufti Datuk Bungsu @ Aziz Jaafar; USIA President Datuk Sapawi Ahmad; MUIS Chief Executive Officer Datuk Ramlan Ag Ali; and Sabah Islamic Religious Affairs Department (Jheains) Director Datuk Jumain Abd Ghani.
Isnin said the new rates are expected to have a positive impact, particularly in increasing zakat collections compared to previous years.
He noted that collections in 2025 recorded a decline compared to 2024 but expressed optimism that the new structure could help reverse the trend this year.
“In Shaa Allah, collections will increase in the coming months. When we collect more, we can channel greater assistance to the people, especially the poor and those in need, and implement more welfare programmes,” he added.
Isnin also encouraged Muslims who can afford it to opt for the higher rate, adding that the state government fully supports the initiative.
He further urged entrepreneurs and business owners, including Assembly members and politicians, to fulfil their zakat obligations.
“I call on all business owners to pay zakat so that their earnings will be blessed,” he said.
