Bangladesh’s inaugural Zakat-focused NGO–Corporate Conference was held at Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel, jointly organized by MASTUL Foundation and Al Zakat Sadaqa Foundation.
Titled “The Role of NGOs and Corporates in Poverty Alleviation through Zakat – 2026,” the event highlighted the potential of Zakat as a strategic tool for sustainable social and economic development.
The conference aimed to bring together the expertise of NGOs and corporate organizations to enhance the impact of Zakat on poverty reduction, emphasizing transparency, accountability and alignment with corporate social responsibility frameworks.
Organizers noted that despite the vast potential of Zakat, its full capacity to alleviate poverty remains largely untapped.
The day-long event featured three sessions and drew distinguished guests, including Md. Daud Mia (NDC), Director General of NGO Affairs Bureau and Shaykh Professor Dr. Md. Mokhtar Ahmad, Director of Center for Islamic Studies at Daffodil International University.
Participants included national and international NGO representatives, Islamic scholars, government officials, corporate leaders, and social activists.
Md. Daud Mia highlighted MASTUL Foundation’s unique role in managing Zakat and Sadaqah in line with Shariah principles, ensuring the funds reach rightful beneficiaries.
He encouraged NGOs and corporate institutions to collaborate with the foundation to expand the reach of Zakat-based poverty alleviation.
Mohammad Akramul Haque, Acting Country Director of Muslim Aid, announced plans for joint Ramadan Iftar and Qurbani initiatives with MASTUL Foundation, aimed at providing essential food support to underserved communities across Bangladesh.
Kazi Reaz Rahman, Founder and Executive Director of MASTUL Foundation, said, “All our work is solely for the pleasure of Almighty Allah. By working together, we can, Insha’Allah, build a just and compassionate society through the proper use of Zakat funds.”
The conference also highlighted MASTUL Foundation’s ongoing humanitarian initiatives, including emergency responses in Gaza (2024) and Sudan (2025), education and vocational programs, the Zakat Swabalambi project for self-reliance, daily meal programs and plans for a Shelter Home Complex for orphans and the elderly.
Partners for the event included Al Zakat Sadaqa Foundation, Pan Pacific Sonargaon, Minarat Tours & Travels and Ready Global Solution. Donations and Zakat contributions to MASTUL Foundation are income tax-exempt under Bangladesh’s National Board of Revenue regulations.
