Indonesian Ministry to Transform Religious Offices into Economic Empowerment Centers with 84 Zakat Institutions

Indonesia's Ministry of Religious Affairs is set to revolutionize its Religious Affairs Offices (KUA) by transforming them into hubs for community economic empowerment. A significant step was taken with the signing of a cooperation agreement for the 2026 KUA Economic Empowerment Program (KUA PEU).

This program involves 84 zakat institutions, which are Islamic organizations that collect and distribute alms. The collaboration aims to leverage these institutions to enhance the economic capabilities of the community. The Ministry of Religious Affairs envisions the KUA not just as administrative centers but as active participants in fostering economic growth and welfare.

The initiative underscores a strategic shift towards utilizing religious institutions for broader societal development. By partnering with zakat bodies, the ministry seeks to create a more robust framework for economic assistance and empowerment, directly benefiting the community.