Terengganu Mufti: Lucky Draws Permissible If Sharia-Compliant, Free of Gambling

Lucky draw programs in Malaysia can be permissible under Islamic law, provided they strictly adhere to Sharia principles, according to the Terengganu Mufti's office. Prof. Dr. Syed Hadzrullathfi Syed Omar clarified that such schemes must be free from gambling (maisir), excessive uncertainty (gharar), fraud (ghish), exploitation, and illicit acquisition of wealth.

Several conditions must be met for a lucky draw to be considered halal. Participants should not be charged extra specifically for entry into the draw. The prices of products or services offered must reflect their actual market value and not be inflated to cover the cost of prizes. Furthermore, the primary motivation for purchasing a product should not be solely to gain a chance to win a prize. Prizes must be funded by the organizers from legitimate sources, distinct from participant fees, and the terms and conditions must be transparent and fair.

Syed Hadzrullathfi warned that if participants are mandated to pay additional fees, purchase special coupons, or incur specific costs to enter, the practice could potentially involve prohibited gambling elements. Similarly, if product prices are unreasonably increased to fund prizes, it raises Sharia concerns.

He emphasized that each lucky draw program, especially those conducted via digital platforms for marketing, requires careful evaluation based on its implementation structure, prize funding, entry requirements, and impact on consumers. The religious ruling cannot be generalized to all lucky draws without examining the specific mechanisms of each program. The guidelines on prize-based lotteries approved by the National Fatwa Committee can serve as a reference to ensure compliance with Sharia principles.