The Role of Digital Applications in the Zakat Collection Ecosystem: A Documentation and Policy Review

Nil Firdaus; Rahmat Firdaus; Lara Aziza Putri

Authors

Nil Firdaus UIN Mahmud Yunus Batusangkar
Rahmat Firdaus Universitas Islam Negeri Mahmud Yunus Batusangkar
Lara Aziza Putri Denisya Smart Consulting

Keywords:

digitalization, ecosystem, zakat

Abstract

Digitalization has driven a significant transformation in zakat collection practices in Indonesia. Application-based innovations not only facilitate transactions but also reshape the governance dynamics of Islamic philanthropy by expanding payment channels, increasing muzaki participation, and strengthening the transparency of amil zakat institutions. This study aims to analyze the role of digital applications within the zakat collection ecosystem through documentation and policy analysis. The research employs a documentary review and policy analysis approach, utilizing policy documents, institutional reports, and relevant academic literature. Data are analyzed through processes of reduction, thematic categorization, policy analysis, and conceptual synthesis. The findings indicate that application-based digitalization provides a relative advantage in the form of transaction efficiency and expanded donor access, particularly among younger muzaki segments. In addition, digital applications enhance real-time accountability through digital reporting mechanisms, which contributes to increased public trust. However, the study also identifies structural challenges at the policy and institutional readiness levels. Regulatory fragmentation and capacity gaps among amil zakat institutions create a form of digital dualism within the national zakat ecosystem. This study concludes that digital applications function as ecosystem agents in zakat governance, indicating that digitalization should be understood not merely as a technological innovation but as an institutional innovation that requires regulatory harmonization and inter-actor coordination.

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