KUCHING: The Regional Islamic Da’wah Council of Southeast Asia and the Pacific (RISEAP) has urged its member organisations to revitalise and institutionalise Baitulmal and Waqf as strategic tools for economic empowerment.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said this is especially crucial for strengthening the economy in areas with Muslim minority communities.
“RISEAP also encourages the use of Islamic social finance instruments such as Baitulmal and Waqf, which are recognised as important tools to address poverty, support da’wah activities and ensure sustainable community development through conferences, training programmes and knowledge-sharing platforms,” he said.
Abang Johari said this in his speech during the opening ceremony of RISEAP International Youth Leadership Training 2025 held at Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC), Kota Kinabalu today (Aug 16).
Abang Johari, who is also president of RISEAP, said there are now 52 member organisations from 24 countries and territories.
With 52 member organisations across Southeast Asia and the Pacific, he said RISEAP strives to enhance Islamic education, spiritual development and leadership and empower minority Muslim communities to preserve their identity and dignity.
“Next, to foster the spirit of unity (ukhuwah) among Muslims in the region. Provide training, conferences, youth development programmes and interfaith engagement and to address the socio-religious challenges faced by Muslim minorities through research and strategic guidance.
“RISEAP plays a unique and significant role in the da’wah movement — not only by supporting grassroots Islamic initiatives but also by ensuring that the voices of minority communities are heard and respected within the global ummah,” he said.
Guided by the values of wisdom, moderation, inclusiveness and collaboration, he stressed that RISEAP will continue to uphold its vision of building resilient, knowledgeable and united minority Muslim communities in Southeast Asia and the Pacific.