Transforming Mustahik into Muzakki through the Islamic Ultra Poor Graduation in East Lombok, Indonesia

Abstract

The implementation of the Islamic Ultra Poor Graduation (IUPG) model in five villages supported by Islamic Relief Indonesia in East Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara, and the transformative potential of mustahik into muzakki, as well as practical implications for zakat institutions in optimizing the management of productive zakat based on sharia principles, are the focus of this paper. Qualitative descriptive case studies were applied as a research approach where data were collected through non-participant observation, in-depth interviews, and document studies involving approximately 968 beneficiary households in five villages. The selection of informants was conducted purposively based on their active involvement in all stages of the program. The collected data were systematically analyzed to identify the patterns of socio-economic transformation that occurred. This study found that IUPG produces multidimensional transformations, particularly in the economic and social dimensions. Economically, the beneficiaries can develop productive assets (such as goat farming), diversify income sources, improve Islamic financial literacy, build saving habits (money and rice), and reduce dependence on informal moneylenders. Meanwhile, socially and normatively, IUPG strengthens group solidarity, work ethic, and the internalization of Islamic philanthropic values. Productive zakat as an Islamic economic instrument functions as a mechanism for structural transformation toward long-term economic independence and sustainable inclusive development.