Pengalaman asnaf golongan remaja terhadap peranan zakat dalam meningkatkan kualiti hidup dan kesejahteraan psikologi

Zakat, as one of the pillars of Islam, plays a crucial role as a wealth distribution instrument to reduce poverty and enhance the quality of life of the asnaf community. Poverty directly affects access to education, health status, family economic stability, as well as social and psychological well-being. However, the impact of zakat on the well-being of adolescents has received limited scholarly attention. This study aims to examine the forms of zakat assistance provided by the Kedah State Zakat Board (LZNK) and to evaluate its effects on the quality of life and psychological well-being of adolescent asnaf. Employing a qualitative approach, this study assessed quality of life through aspects such as education, economy, health, and family social relationships. While psychological well-being was examined through emotional, spiritual, and intellectual dimensions. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 19 adolescent asnaf recipients of zakat assistance that received zakat within the period 2016 to 2021. Two zakat officers that were directly involved in the distribution process were also interviewed. In addition, reports on zakat disbursement by LZNK during the same period were also analysed. The findings indicate that zakat assistance in the form of education, skills training, and financial support contributed to improving academic achievement, alleviating family financial burdens, stabilising health, reducing emotional stress, and strengthening psychological well-being. Notably, several informants successfully completed their studies and secured employment in both public and private sectors. Overall, the study affirms that zakat functions not only as an instrument for poverty alleviation, but also as a mechanism for human capital development. This research also suggests future studies on adults such as gharimin, the poor, and mualaf, using mixed methods, including comparative studies between adolescents and adults to address the diverse needs of different recipient groups.