A community model and role of zakat in improving quality of life of children living in PPRT / Ariza Mohamed

This article looks at a community model implemented at a residential flat in Ipoh, Perak. Case study, qualitative approach research design. A group of women acted upon the UNICEF Malaysia report of the presence of children with stunted growth in Pangsapuri (PPRT). These women started by bringing food to feed the children. They observed that many of the children were malnourished; some were stunted and had skin conditions such as scabies, impetigo and lice. Some of the children were unable to read and write. There was a need for a proper place for the children to study and read. The condition of the children was brought to the attention of appropriate government bodies and a community library was built in the PPRT. It was the first library built in a PPRT in Perak. A community effort is successful just by doing one aspect of religion, that is, by giving out food. Women in the locality were empowered to help improve their children wellbeing. This model can be replicated using zakat to help end stunting in children, create better environment for learning and empower women to be involved in making changes.