The local operator of McDonald’s Malaysia, Gerbang Alaf Restaurants Sdn Bhd, today became the first recipient of the Corporate Zakat Contributor Recognition Certificate from the Selangor Zakat Board (LZS).
In a joint statement with LZS today, McDonald’s said the certificate was a form of declaration for companies in Malaysia that pay business zakat (tithe) in Selangor and the certificate received by the company will be displayed at 94 McDonald’s restaurants in the state.
McDonald’s Malaysia Halal Affairs Committee chairman and Human Resources vice-president Azhar Darbi said his team was pleased with the recognition accorded by LZS.
“Indeed, the payment of corporate zakat has been our ongoing commitment since it was taken over by Reza Group a few years ago. Hopefully, this zakat can continue to help the needy in Malaysia, as well as fulfil our obligations as Muslims,” he said in the statement.
Last year, McDonald’s Malaysia contributed RM1.4 million in corporate zakat for states throughout Malaysia, with Selangor alone contributing a total of RM101,000.
Meanwhile, LZS chief executive officer Saipolyazan M. Yusop said, in the same statement, that the certificate was an incentive for other companies to fulfil their zakat obligations and help the needy, especially during the COVID-19 crisis.
“This year, LZS expects the number of poor and needy asnaf (tithe recipients) in Selangor to increase to 80,000 families. Collection of zakat from contributors in Selangor is very important to ensure the welfare and needs of asnaf in Selangor are protected and they can subsequently be able to enjoy a better life.
“The issuance of this Corporate Zakat Contributor Certificate actually adds value to the existing Halal certificate owned by a company. Hopefully, the certificate given to McDonald’s Malaysia today can further strengthen the confidence of Malaysians in the McDonald’s brand in the country,” he said. — BERNAMA
