The Integration of Zakat and Tax to Improve Food Security in Indonesia

Abstract

Zakat, as a religious obligation in Islam, has the potential to play a significant role in addressing food insecurity in Indonesia. This paper examines the integration of zakat and tax systems as a strategy to improve food security. The research employs a qualitative approach by using literature review from various scientific researches about zakat and tax management, also by drawing on comparative case studies from Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and Brunei Darussalam, which have integrated zakat and tax systems to varying degrees. The paper proposes several policy recommendations for Indonesia, including optimizing the types of wealth subject to zakat, improving the transparency and governance of zakat institutions, integrating zakat and tax administration, increasing public awareness and education, strategically distributing zakat funds, utilizing technology, and strengthening coordination between zakat and social welfare agencies. By effectively leveraging zakat as a mechanism for wealth redistribution and social security, Indonesia can make significant strides in achieving food security for Indonesian citizens.