Exploring the concept of zakat distribution to asnaf Al-gharimin recipients

This study is conducted to explore the concept of zakat distribution to asnaf algharimin. Besides that, this study also aims to identify the criteria of eligible asnaf al-gharimin. In addition, the purpose of this study is to identify practices of zakat distribution to asnaf al-gharimin in zakat institutions especially in Kedah. This study is a qualitative research which data collected through document and followed by indepth interview with selected experts in the field of Islamic studies and zakat management. Moreover, the result indicated that the definition of asnaf al-gharimin recipients that practiced by zakat institutions in Malaysia is based on Shafie school of thoughts. The general definition of asnaf al-gharimin that have been applied by zakat institutions are the same, but on the part of criteria of eligible asnaf al-gharimin, it is different between zakat institutions. The recommendations of this study are there is need of future research on the practices of zakat distribution to asnaf al-gharimin to improve and develop zakat institutions to be more efficient in managing zakat distribution to asnaf al-gharimin