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International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences

Open Access Journal

ISSN: 2222-6990

Adapting Malaysia’s Tabung Haji Model: A Strategic Proposal for Thailand’s Hajj Fund as a Case Study Possibility

Mohammadtahir Cheumar, Umar Akem

http://dx.doi.org/10.6007/IJARBSS/v14-i12/24050

Open access

The Hajj pilgrimage is a vital religious obligation for Muslims, yet financial barriers remain a significant challenge for many, particularly in developing countries. This study proposes adapting Malaysia’s successful Tabung Haji model to establish a Shariah-compliant Hajj savings fund in Thailand. Tabung Haji's integration of ethical investment strategies, profit-sharing mechanisms, and government-backed security has demonstrated its effectiveness in enabling millions of Malaysian Muslims to fulfil their religious duties. Drawing on the principles of Islamic finance, this research suggests replicating these features in Thailand while incorporating financial literacy programs to empower Thai Muslims. The proposed model emphasizes adherence to Shariah principles, including the prohibition of riba (interest) and gharar (uncertainty), to create a sustainable and accessible financial mechanism. According to this model, Thailand can improve the experience of handling money as well as paving the way for the poor Muslim minority to perform the Hajj pilgrimage; this case can be a model for other countries that face such challenges.

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Cheumar, M., & Akem, U. (2024). Adapting Malaysia’s Tabung Haji Model: A Strategic Proposal for Thailand’s Hajj Fund as a Case Study Possibility. International Journal of Academic Research in Business and Social Sciences, 14(12), 1145–1151.