Minister of Religious Affairs Nasaruddin Umar Supports Baznas in Strengthening Pesantren Education

The Minister of Religious Affairs, Nasaruddin Umar, has expressed full support for the National Board of Zakat (Baznas) RI to strengthen pesantren education in Indonesia. This synergy is expected to provide a direct impact on improving the quality of life and facilities for students (santri).

Nasaruddin emphasised that the cooperation between the Ministry of Religious Affairs (Kemenag) and Baznas is not merely structural but also functional. Through various strategic programmes, community funds (dana umat) can be distributed more effectively to meet the fundamental needs within the pesantren environment.

“In this way, God willing, the distribution of community funds through Baznas can be concretely and measurably accounted for,” Nasaruddin stated in his remarks on Thursday (17/9).

The Minister also invited zakat payers (muzaki) to channel their contributions through Baznas. He noted that the commitment of the state zakat institution and the presence of the Directorate General of Islamic Education, particularly regarding pesantren, are crucial for the sustainability of student education.