DIGITAL STORYTELLING FOR ENHANCING PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF ZAKAT AND ASNAF: THE ZADIS PROJECT

Abstract

This study introduces the Zakat and Asnaf Digital Storytelling (ZADiS) project, which aims to improve public understanding of zakat and asnaf, two central concepts in Islamic financial education. Although zakat is one of the five pillars of Islam, studies show that more than 30% of eligible Muslims in Malaysia do not consistently fulfil their zakat obligations. According to the Department of Statistics Malaysia, in 2023, zakat collection reached RM 1.05 billion, yet awareness of zakat types and asnaf categories remains low. Traditional teaching methods, such as sermons, brochures, and static websites, have limited effectiveness, particularly among younger generations who prefer digital and interactive content. To address this challenge, ZADiS developed 17 short animated videos (9 on zakat types and 8 on asnaf categories), each lasting two minutes and combining one minute of narrative storytelling with one minute of explanatory content. The project followed four phases: needs identification with two zakat experts, content design and production using Adobe Animate, validation by experts, and user testing with five university-aged participants from diverse backgrounds. The findings revealed that all participants reported increased comprehension, with 100% affirming the videos’ educational value. Experts highlighted the clarity and cultural appropriateness of the materials. These results confirm that digital storytelling enhances engagement, emotional connection, and comprehension of complex religious concepts. The study recommends training zakat staff in digital media production and expanding ZADiS into schools, universities, and public campaigns. Future directions include piloting AR/VR applications to create more interactive and immersive Islamic education experiences.