The Role of Zakat Management in Poverty Alleviation at BAZNAS Pekalongan Regency

Abstract

Based on data from BPS-Statistics Indonesia of Pekalongan Regency, the number of people living in poverty in 2021 reached 91.86 thousand out of a total population of 976,504, an increase of 4.86 thousand compared to the previous year. This condition indicates that poverty remains a serious issue that requires proper and sustainable attention. In response to this situation, BAZNAS Pekalongan Regency has implemented various zakat management programs, particularly productive zakat programs, as part of its strategy to improve community welfare and prevent the emergence of new poverty. This study aims to examine the zakat management system and analyze BAZNAS's role in poverty alleviation in Pekalongan Regency. The research uses a qualitative method, with data collected through interviews, observations, and documentation involving 34 mustahiks as zakat beneficiaries. The findings show that zakat management, particularly in the distribution and utilization processes for the eight categories of asnaf, has been carried out correctly. Productive zakat distributed as business capital has had a positive impact on the mustahik's economic conditions. A total of 28 beneficiaries experienced economic improvement, while 6 others showed no significant change. These findings indicate that productive zakat plays an essential role in poverty alleviation. However, zakat collection still needs to be strengthened to maximize its potential and broaden its impact on society.