The Impact of Zakat Funds on Sekolah Agama Rakyat (SARS) in Kedah: Examining Infrastructure Development and Teacher Retention

Abstract

This study explores the role of zakat funding in enhancing the educational landscape of Sekolah Agama Rakyat (SARs) in Kedah, Malaysia. The research adopts a qualitative approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including school administrators, teachers, officials from Lembaga Zakat Negeri Kedah (LZNK) and students/parents from asnaf backgrounds. The study examines how zakat contributions are allocated to improve school infrastructure and support teacher retention, ultimately assessing their impact on student outcomes. Findings indicate that zakat funding significantly contributes to upgrading physical school facilities, fostering a more conducive learning environment and enhancing teacher satisfaction and retention. This research provides valuable insights into how zakat can be a strategic tool for long-term educational development and offers recommendations for more effective management and allocation of zakat resources. By bridging the gap between Islamic finance and education, the study highlights the transformative potential of zakat in supporting the sustainability and growth of SARs.