Claims that Tabung Haji depositors’ money funded Socso contributions for religious workers untrue, says Zulkifli Hasan

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 11 — Senator Dr Zulkifli Hasan, the Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), has refuted claims that Tabung Haji depositors' funds were used to pay Social Security Organisation (Socso) contributions for 40,000 mosque personnel and takmir teachers across Malaysia. According to Zulkifli, a dedicated government allocation fully covered the contributions, with TH serving as the implementing agency.

He stated that the government's decision to fully fund these contributions acknowledges the service of religious personnel and aims to ensure their welfare, social protection, and wellbeing. Zulkifli emphasized that any claims suggesting pilgrims' savings were utilized are entirely false and speculative. The beneficiaries encompass imams, bilals, mosque caretakers, and takmir teachers serving Muslim communities nationwide.

The minister affirmed the government's commitment to maintaining integrity in managing trust funds and upholding transparent corporate governance in line with Syariah principles. He further highlighted the government's ongoing priority to safeguard religious institutions and support the growth of the Muslim community in Malaysia.