Road to 9th ICONZ: Series 2 Explores Strengthening Zakat Policy and Innovation

Jakarta, October 9, 2025 – The National Zakat Board (BAZNAS) RI convened policy experts to address the gap between Indonesia’s zakat potential of Rp 327 trillion and the current realization of only Rp 40 trillion. In the webinar “Road to ICONZ Series 2” themed “Strengthening Zakat Policy and Innovation for Community Welfare”, experts from BAPPENAS, KNEKS, and INDEF discussed transformative strategies to maximize zakat’s role.

Prof. Nurhidayah (INDEF) highlighted the need to revise Law No. 23/2011 on Zakat Management, stressing two priorities: (1) Stronger fiscal integration by shifting zakat treatment from tax deductible to tax credit; (2) A unified national zakat data system to overcome fragmented platforms across BAZNAS, LAZ, and fintech partners, improving transparency and accountability.

Government representatives emphasized aligning zakat with development agendas. Rosi Widyawati (BAPPENAS) explained efforts to integrate the National Zakat Index (IZN) into regional development plans (RPJMD), while Dwi Irianti (KNEKS) showcased initiatives linking ZIS funds with community empowerment, including nutrition programs and syariah cooperatives.

This webinar is part of the “Road to the 9th ICONZ” series, culminating on 9–11 December 2025. Muhammad Hasbi Zainal (Director of Research and Development, BAZNAS RI) described the series as a “festival of knowledge” to strengthen zakat–state relations. The forum reaffirmed the commitment to position zakat as a key pillar for social justice and welfare in Indonesia.

A recording of the event is available on the BAZNAS YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOyJ9IjO89U&t=1304s.