A case study of waqf lands in Selangor: a proposed model for agribusiness / Norfaridah Ali Azizan

This study explores the potential of the waqf lands in Selangor to be revitalised for
agribusiness activities. The latest survey in 2018 shows that 87% of Malaysia's waqf
lands are considered underutilised, which is a loss to the ummah, country, and the
endower. Therefore, a pragmatic approach is needed to be developed and
implemented so that the underutilised waqf lands can be transformed. Selangor is
unique because it is among the most significant states in Malaysia, blessed with fertile
lands. Likewise, the issues that affect waqf lands in Malaysia are also faced in
Selangor, and the underutilised waqf lands in the state are too high. Agribusiness is
suggested because this study viewed it as a pragmatic solution to address the problems
of waqf lands and at the same time to assist the government in achieving the food
security level for the country and to some extent, to lift the B40 economic situation.
This study employed qualitative methods by interviewing nine key informants who
are experts in their fields comprising Shariah experts, waqf management, agriculture
authority, farmer and government agencies. They have discussed several pertinent
issues such as Shariah requirements, legal consideration, financial constraints,
location and size of the waqf lands, expertise to develop the waqf lands, the
agreement's scope, and the responsible party to lead the initiative. Limitations are also
being highlighted in the study, so readers will understand the research's whole
discussion and the mitigation and explanation to address the limitations. At the end of
the study, one model is proposed for agribusiness on the waqf lands: the Waqf
Trustee-Anchor Company - Community Farmers Model, validated by the key
informants.