A Zakat Dawah Model in Empowering Asnaf Economic Capacity: An Analysis of the Large-Scale Asnaf Smart Rice Field Program (SSBBA) in Yan District, Kedah

This article examines the implementation of a zakat-based da?wah model to empower asnaf economic development through the Smart Sawah Berskala Besar Asnaf (SSBBA) Programme, initiated by the Kedah State Zakat Board (LZNK) in the Yan District. The study emerges from the persistent poverty experienced by B40 paddy farmers and the inconsistent zakat collection rates, despite the introduction of various assistance initiatives. The primary objective is to evaluate the effectiveness of a strategic zakat da?wah approach, implemented through local zakat institutional collaboration, in strengthening religious consciousness, enhancing a sense of responsibility, and driving positive socioeconomic transformation among asnaf participants. Employing a qualitative case-study design, the research utilises semi-structured interviews, field observations of da?wah activities, and focus group discussions. The findings reveal that a systematic zakat da?wah framework grounded in the five principles of Maqasid al-Shariah successfully improves religious understanding, zakat compliance, and participants' economic resilience, while shaping their identity as agents of change within rural communities. The study contributes to the theoretical and practical development of zakat da?wah within Islamic agro-economic initiatives. It proposes a strategic model for implementing more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient economic development programmes for the well-being of asnaf paddy-farming communities.