Ashurov, Sharofiddin (2026) Shari’ah governance challenges of smart waqf platforms: evidence from Malaysia’s regulatory and institutional framework. Al Waqf Journal, 7 (1). pp. 1-38. ISSN 2959-8958 E-ISSN 2959-8966
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Abstract
Waqf has historically functioned as a key institution for social welfare and intergenerational equity in Muslim societies. However, its governance structures are increasingly challenged by digital transformation. In Malaysia, emerging blockchain-based and smart waqf platforms offer opportunities to enhance transparency and operational efficiency but also introduce new Shari’ah governance concerns. This study examines how Malaysia’s decentralised legal framework and institutional arrangements influence the governance, enforceability, and ethical oversight of innovative waqf platforms. Using a qualitative interpretivist approach, the research conducts systematic document analysis of federal and state legislation, policy instruments, fatwa compilations, and academic literature. The findings indicate that digital waqf platforms are generally viewed as administrative tools, while legal authority and Shari’ah oversight remain institutionally anchored within State Islamic Religious Councils and Syariah courts. Smart contract automation introduces unresolved issues related to accountability, discretion, and liability, further complicated by legislative fragmentation across states. The study concludes that the sustainability of smart waqf initiatives depends primarily on institutional alignment, harmonised governance standards, and adaptive Shari’ah oversight mechanisms rather than technological advancement alone.
| Item Type: | Article (Journal) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Shari’ah Governance; Smart Waqf; Blockchain; Islamic Social Finance; Malaysia. |
| Subjects: | BPH Islamic Economics > BPH741 Waqf BPH Islamic Economics > BPH830.3 Social systems. Urban groups. Cities and towns. Sustainable urban development T Technology > T Technology (General) T Technology > T Technology (General) > T175 Industrial research. Research and development |
| Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button): | UNSPECIFIED |
| Depositing User: | Dr Sharofiddin Ashurov |
| Date Deposited: | 11 May 2026 10:51 |
| Last Modified: | 11 May 2026 10:51 |
| Queue Number: | 2026-05-Q3163 |
| URI: | http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/128778 |
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