Global Journal Al-Thaqafah 

About: Global Journal Al-Thaqafah is an academic journal published by Universiti Sultan Azlan Shah. The journal publishes majorly in the area(s): Islam & Computer science. It has an ISSN identifier of 2232-0474. It is also open access. Over the lifetime, 178 publications have been published receiving 832 citations. The journal is also known as: GJAT.

Halal Cosmetics Adoption Among Young Muslim Consumers in Malaysia: Religiosity Concern

Abstract: The global increase in Muslim populations and purchasing power has created a new demand for halal cosmetic product development.While the introduction of new product may facilitate companies in gaining competitive advantage, the failure rates of product innovation is also high. Owing to such interests, this paper aims to determine factors that motivate young adult Muslim consumers in the emerging market to adopt halal cosmetics. This study expands prior research by integrating Diffusion of Innovation theory and religiosity dimension to explain the antecedents of halal cosmetics adoption among young Muslim consumers. Data were collected from 238 young Muslim consumers using questionnaires distributed at a number of supermarkets in Kuala Lumpur. The conceptual model and hypotheses developed were tested using partial leased square.Our results demonstrate that perceived product characteristics, social influence and consumer innovativeness influence young Muslim consumers to adopt halal cosmetics products. This study also report religiosity as moderator between these three predictors and halal cosmetic adoption.

Zakat Institution in Malaysia: Problems and Issues

Abstract: Zakat administration in Malaysia is a State matter in particular relating to the passing of regulations and statutes. The respective Heads of States (the rulers) are heads of Islam as enshrined in the Federal Constitution. This paper gives a chronicle of the transformation and phases of development of zakat institution in Malaysia. Zakat institution can play an important role in complementing the Government’s poverty eradication effort although its scope is for the poor and needy Muslims only. Besides the poor and needy, there are other beneficiaries allowed by the Syariah. Its success would also help to buffer the effects of recession of the economy on the poor through capacity building and mind-set transformation. The effectiveness of the zakat institution in carrying out its duties would depend on a number of factors viz. expansion of new resources for zakat, the collection of zakat from tangible and intangible properties, systematic zakat management, efficient zakat distribution and the thoroughness of implementation of Islamic rules. The article would discuss on matters that should be dealt with in order to improve zakat institutions in Malaysia in terms of the inefficiency issue, prospective payers, and capacity building.

Effective implementation of the integrated Islamic education

Abstract: This study is aqualitative research on the implementation of Integrated Islamic Education. The Pioneer Schools (Sekolah Rintis) and the Integrated Islamic Education systems are solid evidence that not only Malaysia, but also Brunei has decided to settle on in promoting comprehensive education path for their future generations. However, some problems surface later, which are thought to impede a fully successful implementation of the Integrated Islamic Education in the country. This work aims to examine the extent of the implementation of the Integrated Islamic Education system and to evaluate whether there is ev[dence which requires revision of the current system. This research has identified, however, the need to look into the implementation of two main solutions to successfully accomplish the vision of assimilating the Integrated Islamic Education system in the country in the light of (i) the implementation of the Thoughtful Schooling system or the concept of Integrated Islamic Education system and (ii) the Educator’s capability to prepare and practice a good lesson plan, according to the ‘Eight Steps of the Teaching Learning Process’ in the classroom by focusing on the four factors on the Heart-mind concept of the Integrated Islamic Education system.

Financial Management Practices of Mosques in Malaysia

Abstract: This study explores on the importance of financial management practices for different types of mosques in Malaysia. Questionnaires were administered to chairman and treasurer of 192 selected mosques available in Malaysia including Sabah and Sarawak. This study suggests that a proper and accurate recording of financial transactions, enhancing the accountability of chairman and treasurer is required in order to improve the productivity and performance effectiveness. The inclusion of these variables provides important implications for expanding our understanding of financial management practices in nonprofit organizations and creating new research opportunities. The result suggests that Malaysian mosques can enhance internal control system and performance to achieve mission and goals of these crucial institutions of societal development.

Home financing pricing issues in the Bay’ Bithaman Ajil (BBA) and Musharakah Mutanaqisah (MMP)

Abstract: Islamic banking in Malaysia has evolved rapidly since its first invention in 1983. Throughout 30 years of development, various products have been developed to fulfill the demands of the society both Muslim and Non-Muslim. Positive support and constructive criticisms have flourished the industry and made the product innovation to be enhanced accordingly. With regards to the products, retail financing is observed to be so dearer to the society compared to other form of financing like trade and corporate. Home financing is regarded as the most influential one since it normally affects long term commitment of the customer. Thus, this paper aims at analysing pricing issue of home financing products offered in Malaysia specifically BBA and MMP. The study uses content analysis method with intense and analytical readings of the previous texts and literatures on issues observed in the two products. The issue will then be comparatively reviewed using Maqasid-based appraisals.