Enhancing Religious Practice and Character Development: The Role of Sekolah Zakat Kedah in Supporting Asnaf Students

Access to quality education remains a challenge for underprivileged communities, particularly asnaf students in Malaysia, as socioeconomic constraints may limit their opportunities to receive education and develop religious and moral values. In response to this need, Lembaga Zakat Negeri Kedah (LZNK) established Sekolah Zakat Kedah (SZK) to provide asnaf students with greater access to education. While previous studies have largely examined the financial, educational, and academic outcomes of zakat assistance, limited attention has been given to the role of zakat-funded schools in supporting the development of religious practice and character among asnaf students. This study addresses this gap by examining SZK’s role in enhancing religious practice and character development among asnaf students, offering an institutional perspective on zakat-supported education beyond financial access. Using a qualitative approach, data were purposively collected from two SZK institutions, Maahad Dini Sultan Abdul Halim and Sekolah Keusahawanan Zakat Kedah, through semi-structured interviews with 10 informants comprising an LZNK officer, teachers, wardens and counsellors. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed and thematically analysed using ATLAS.ti V9. Findings show that SZK strengthens students' commitment to religious practices, including Quranic recitation, congregational prayers and voluntary worship, while instilling moral values through discipline, respect, responsibility and leadership. In some cases, students continued these practices beyond school, suggesting that SZK's structured approach may support continuity in religious and character development. The study contributes to zakat education literature by showing how zakat support can function as an institutional enabler, rather than merely a financial mechanism, for religious practice and character formation.