SINGAPORE \u2013 More than 800 senior zakat beneficiaries received around $3.3 million in CPF Retirement Account top-ups in the first year of the MUIS-CPF Matched Retirement Savings Scheme (MRSS).<\/p>\n
In a statement on Sept 3, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) said 830 seniors received the top-ups through contributions from MUIS and the Government.<\/p>\n
The MUIS-CPF MRSS, introduced in 2025, provides eligible seniors with MUIS-funded top-ups of up to $2,000 into their CPF Retirement Accounts. This money is then matched dollar for dollar by the Government.<\/p>\n
\u201cMUIS contributed about $1.66 million from zakat funds. Together with the Government\u2019s matched amount, approximately $3.3 million was credited to beneficiaries\u2019 CPF Retirement Accounts,\u201d said MUIS.<\/p>\n
Zakat is the collection of tithes from the Muslim community, which is then distributed to those in need.<\/p>\n
MUIS said it will continue to reach out to eligible seniors who have yet to participate in the MUIS-CPF MRSS.<\/p>\n
The annual scheme helps eligible senior zakat beneficiaries strengthen their retirement savings and ensure longer-term financial security.<\/p>\n
\u201cBy crediting the funds directly into their CPF Retirement Accounts, beneficiaries\u2019 savings continue to earn CPF interest and contribute to higher monthly retirement payouts over time,\u201d said MUIS.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile, the monthly zakat financial assistance scheme helps beneficiaries meet their daily living expenses.<\/p>\n
In its statement, MUIS said it will review its zakat assistance framework to ensure aid remains relevant as the community\u2019s demographic, social and economic needs continue to evolve.<\/p>\n
The review will examine how assistance can continue to support underprivileged groups while remaining accessible to those who genuinely require support.<\/p>\n
It will also consider how community zakat funds can be managed responsibly and sustainably so that assistance remains available in the years ahead.<\/p>\n
More details will be announced in the coming months, said MUIS.<\/p>\n
Speaking at the MUIS Zakat Beneficiaries Seniors Day 2026 on Sept 3 at D\u2019Marquee in Downtown East, Acting Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad highlighted the importance of enabling seniors to age with dignity, confidence and assurance.<\/p>\n
He also expressed his appreciation to zakat contributors for their generosity and trust, and to mosques, social development officers, volunteers and community partners for walking alongside beneficiaries and connecting them to the support they need, said MUIS.<\/p>\n
Beyond financial assistance, zakat beneficiaries are connected via mosques to a wider ecosystem of care that promotes active ageing, healthier living and social connectedness, MUIS added.<\/p>\n
They are also introduced to the Santunan Emas programme, which connects them to community activities, health programmes, relevant services and spiritual guidance suited to their needs.<\/p>\n