Digital Zakat Management and Financial Inclusion: An Interdisciplinary Analysis of Islamic Social Finance in the Digital Era

Abstrak

This study examines the role of digital zakat management in promoting financial inclusion within Muslim societies through an interdisciplinary approach combining Islamic jurisprudence, financial technology (fintech), and public policy analysis. In the digital era, zakat institutions increasingly adopt digital platforms, mobile applications, and fintech systems to enhance transparency, efficiency, and outreach. However, the extent to which digital zakat contributes to financial inclusion remains underexplored in academic discourse. Using qualitative normative and conceptual research methods, this study analyzes recent scholarly works (2020–2025) and contemporary policy reports to construct an integrative framework. The findings reveal that digital zakat systems significantly improve access to financial services for marginalized communities by facilitating digital payments, beneficiary databases, and integration with Islamic microfinance programs. This research proposes an interdisciplinary governance model to strengthen accountability, technological integration, and socio economic empowerment. The study contributes to Islamic social finance literature by positioning digital zakat as a strategic instrument for inclusive and sustainable development.