Latest news with #AhmedalHarthy
Zawya
18-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: Gold price surge reflects on zakat obligations
Muscat : One of the five pillars of Islam, zakat obligates Muslims to donate 2.5% of their qualifying wealth annually to those in need. This religious duty ensures fair distribution of wealth and fosters social solidarity within the community. For many Muslim families, especially in Asian and Omani communities, gold serves not only as jewellery but also investment. With gold prices recently at an all-time high of US$3,000 per ounce, up more than 35% since March 2024, the value of gold holdings has sharply increased. This rise has led to a higher zakat due for many households, impacting their budgets. Islamic scholar Hatim Abdul Salem stresses that the obligation to pay zakat is not affected by changes in asset values. The nisab, the minimum wealth threshold for zakat, is traditionally set at 85g of gold or 595g of silver. As long as a Muslim's wealth meets or exceeds this threshold over a lunar year, zakat is due, regardless of market fluctuations. 'This principle underscores the importance of fulfilling religious obligations without being affected by economic fluctuations,' he said. Community members echo this view, emphasising the spiritual significance of zakat. Ahmed al Harthy, a local businessman, said, 'The rise in gold prices should not deter us from our duty. Zakat purifies our wealth and souls, and its calculation should remain consistent, regardless of market trends.' Salim Khan, a businessman based in Ruwi, agreed, adding, 'Whether gold prices rise or fall, our commitment to this pillar of Islam must remain unwavering. While it's important to be aware of market dynamics, these should not influence our religious obligations. Zakat is a fixed duty, and its fulfillment brings blessings beyond monetary value.' Marketing executive Zayed Malik offered his perspective, saying, 'While gold price fluctuations can affect the monetary value of one's assets, these do not change the essential obligation of zakat. We must believe in our book – the Quran – and trust that everything has good logic.' © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Muscat Daily
17-03-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Gold price surge reflects on zakat obligations
Muscat – One of the five pillars of Islam, zakat obligates Muslims to donate 2.5% of their qualifying wealth annually to those in need. This religious duty ensures fair distribution of wealth and fosters social solidarity within the community. For many Muslim families, especially in Asian and Omani communities, gold serves not only as jewellery but also investment. With gold prices recently at an all-time high of US$3,000 per ounce, up more than 35% since March 2024, the value of gold holdings has sharply increased. This rise has led to a higher zakat due for many households, impacting their budgets. Islamic scholar Hatim Abdul Salem stresses that the obligation to pay zakat is not affected by changes in asset values. The nisab, the minimum wealth threshold for zakat, is traditionally set at 85g of gold or 595g of silver. As long as a Muslim's wealth meets or exceeds this threshold over a lunar year, zakat is due, regardless of market fluctuations. 'This principle underscores the importance of fulfilling religious obligations without being affected by economic fluctuations,' he said. Community members echo this view, emphasising the spiritual significance of zakat. Ahmed al Harthy, a local businessman, said, 'The rise in gold prices should not deter us from our duty. Zakat purifies our wealth and souls, and its calculation should remain consistent, regardless of market trends.' Salim Khan, a businessman based in Ruwi, agreed, adding, 'Whether gold prices rise or fall, our commitment to this pillar of Islam must remain unwavering. While it's important to be aware of market dynamics, these should not influence our religious obligations. Zakat is a fixed duty, and its fulfillment brings blessings beyond monetary value.' Marketing executive Zayed Malik offered his perspective, saying, 'While gold price fluctuations can affect the monetary value of one's assets, these do not change the essential obligation of zakat. We must believe in our book – the Quran – and trust that everything has good logic.'
Muscat Daily
16-03-2025
- General
- Muscat Daily
Reduce waste, self-restrict and respect
Muscat – Wastage is a growing concern during Ramadan, with excessive quantities of food often leading to unnecessary waste. Beyond food, social habits also come under scrutiny during the holy month, as patience, kindness and self-discipline are tested in daily interactions. How can people be more mindful of their consumption and behaviour? Here is what Muscat Daily readers said – Ahmed al Harthy, Taxi driver Planning meals in advance and cooking only what is needed can significantly reduce food waste. Sharing excess food with those in need is another great way to ensure nothing goes to waste. Additionally, we must drive safely, especially during iftar rush hour, to prevent accidents and ensure everyone reaches home safely. Saeed al Balushi, PRO People should buy and cook in moderation rather than indulge in showing off. Encouraging children to understand the value of food from a young age is crucial. Also, misbehaviour in public places like mosques and markets should be addressed – Ramadan is about respect and discipline, not just fasting. Maryam al Habsi, Private sector employee We should store and reuse leftovers creatively instead of throwing these away. If everyone donates a portion of their iftar meals, it will make a huge difference. Also, people should be more mindful of their temper – Ramadan is about self-restraint, controlling road rage and frustration in traffic jams. Rajesh Menon, Sales executive Buffets at restaurants often lead to food wastage. Owners should implement better portioning strategies. Families should also educate children on the value of food. A little patience and consideration can make Ramadan a peaceful experience for all. Let's take things as they come and be more calm. Priya Sharma, Homemaker Instead of lavish iftar spreads, preparing simple, healthy meals will reduce waste and benefit health. Leftover food should be packed and shared with neighbours or the underprivileged rather than discarded. Also, let's remember that Ramadan is about kindness – misbehaving with service staff must be avoided. Ayesha al Zadjali, Homemaker Restaurants and households should encourage portion control and distribute leftover food to charity. Patience and kindness reflect the true spirit of Ramadan. Additionally, we must not lie and be kind to even strangers.
Muscat Daily
02-03-2025
- General
- Muscat Daily
Give responsibly this Ramadan to curb begging
Muscat – There is a heightened sense of charity and generosity during Ramadan. This leads to a rise in begging, while raising concerns about how to ensure help reaches those really in need. What measures can be implemented to minimise begging during the holy month? Here is what Muscat Daily readers said – Ahmed al Harthy, Taxi driver To minimise begging, we must strengthen our charity organisations and ensure that Zakat and Sadakh reach those in real need. Community awareness campaigns can educate people on responsible giving, directing donations to official charities instead of street beggars. This will ensure support goes to the right people while discouraging professional begging. Fatima al Balushi, Homemaker One of the effective ways to tackle begging is by promoting structured aid through registered charities. Mosques and community centres should collaborate to distribute food, clothing and financial assistance fairly. Additionally, authorities must take strict action against any form of begging. Mohammed Rashid, Businessman As business owners, we can help by offering temporary jobs to the needy during Ramadan instead of direct handouts. This empowers them and discourages reliance on begging. At the same time, we must encourage donations to licensed charities that assess genuine cases, ensuring assistance reaches those truly struggling. Imran Sheikh, Businessman The best way to reduce begging is by ensuring that government-run and private charity programmes like Dar al Atta'a are equipped to help the needy for which one must donate to these entities. Free meal distribution, clothing drives and financial aid should be well-organised so that no one is forced to beg. Neha Sharma, Private sector employee Instead of temporary relief and punishment, authorities should help them find sustainable livelihoods. During Ramadan, religious leaders can guide people to donate through proper channels rather than giving money on the streets, which may encourage more begging. Rahul Desai, Entrepreneur Corporate social responsibility initiatives should be leveraged to provide structured aid. Businesses can collaborate with NGOs to distribute iftar meals, fund education programmes and support employment opportunities for the underprivileged. Murugan Subbarayan, Teacher Restaurants can provide free food parcels at their shop door so that needy people can have it without begging. Shopping malls can have free counters for needy people during Ramadan; they can collect basic foods, vegetables and even old stocks of clothes. Mwasalat and other transport companies can offer free service during Ramadan, specifically in the evenings for iftar.
