Where To Use the Fund? Analysing Preference of Waqf Fund Usage for Uitm Terengganu, Malaysia

Abstract

The Malaysia Education Blueprint 2015-2025 emphasizes financial self-sufficiency for public universities, prompting institutions to explore diversified revenue streams like waqf (Islamic charitable endowment). This study investigates the preferences of the Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Terengganu community for allocating educational waqf funds. Utilizing a purposive sampling method, data were collected from 261 students, staff, and alumni via a survey. Respondents ranked eight potential waqf-funded projects. Findings indicate that "education for student development" is the most prioritized project, followed by "infrastructure development" and "mosque development." Projects related to "trade and commerce" and "environment" were the least preferred. The results reveal significant demographic variations; for instance, younger students favored immediate, tangible benefits, while older respondents prioritized health and social welfare. The study concludes that to optimize waqf fund utilization and enhance donor engagement, university administrators should prioritize projects aligned with these community preferences, primarily focusing on student-centric initiatives. The findings offer valuable insights for UiTM Terengganu's policy development and serve as a reference for other higher education institutions pursuing financial sustainability through waqf.