Waqf management and fundraising: lessons from the development of waqf-based pesantrens in Indonesia

Abstract

This study aims to identify factors that contribute to the successful development of waqf management and fundraising structures among the waqf-based pesantrens in Indonesia. The research focuses on applying innovative waqf management and fundraising models in three waqf-based pesantrens, namely Pondok Gontor, Darunnajah and Tazakka. The case study approach describes the multifaceted phenomenon in the waqf institutions of the three waqf-based pesantrens. The primary data are obtained through semi-structured interviews, while the secondary data are collected through observations and document reviews. Both data provide important and useful insights into understanding the waqf management and fundraising in these pesantrens. In addition, content and thematic analysis are utilised in this study to scrutinise the application of the waqf management and fundraising models that contribute significantly to the development of waqf in the sampled pesantrens. The results suggest three factors that contribute to the success of waqf management and fundraising, which are an excellent organisational structure; human resources along with their organisational values (i.e., sincerity, simplicity, self-reliance, Islamic brotherhoods, freedom of mind), and; innovation and creativity in the implementation of the waqf management and fundraising. Furthermore, employing various models of management and fundraising has been identified as an innovative development for the perpetuity of the waqf and its institution. This approach also helps to achieve the objective of generating a stable revenue for the waqf. This study infers that the waqf management and fundraising models practised by the three waqf-based pesantrens are designed to reduce their dependence on donations as a revenue source. Finally, the original objectives of waqf are observed by the pesantrens in the redistribution of waqf revenues to various educational programmes, welfare, health, and community and economic development of these pesantrens.

Keywords: Waqf, management, fundraising, pesantren, institution.