Over 5,600 Muslim households receive S$2.2 million in cost-of-living support from MUIS

The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) has disbursed $2.2 million in one-off Cost-of-Living Support to more than 5,600 eligible Zakat beneficiary households, to help lower-income Muslim families with their daily expenses.

One-off cost-of-living support

According to a MUIS media release on Sep. 25, each household received at least $120 under the special payout, with higher amounts given to households with greater needs based on their per capita income (PCI).

The one-off support is funded by Zakat contributions from the Muslim community, referring to the Islamic principle of financially contributing to the less fortunate.

MUIS said the support complements its monthly Zakat Financial Assistance and the government's broader cost-of-living support measures, and reflects its commitment to ensuring Zakat assistance remains responsive to the evolving needs of beneficiaries.

Zakat complements national efforts to support lower-income households

MUIS said Zakat is a cornerstone of the Muslim community in Singapore, channelling contributions from Zakat payers to eligible beneficiaries across the eight asnaf, or categories of Zakat recipients.

Its approach to Zakat is guided by the values of Ihsan (compassion), Amanah (trust and responsibility) and Islah (continuous improvement), which underpin how it cares for those in need, administers Zakat responsibly, and improves support over time.

Beyond providing immediate relief, MUIS said Zakat also strengthens social resilience and complements national efforts to support lower-income households.

One-off support made possible by Zakat contributions

MUIS Chief Executive Kadir Maideen said that the government has introduced a range of national support measures to help households manage higher living costs.

This one-off support, made possible by the Muslim community's Zakat contributions, provides additional assistance to eligible beneficiaries who may face greater financial pressures.

Kadir said MUIS remains committed to ensuring its assistance is "timely and responsive" as it works alongside the government and community partners to uplift vulnerable families.

Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad said that for some families in the community, managing everyday expenses can be a real concern, in a video uploaded on Facebook on Sep. 25.

"A little extra support can make a meaningful difference," he added, thanking the community for playing its part through Zakat contributions to help those who need it.

Top image via Google Maps, Zaqy Mohamad/Facebook