Abstract:

Since World War II social welfare has been an idea very much cherished by developed countries especially in Europe such as United Kingdom, Sweden and Norway. On the other hand many countries across Asia are known or depicted as less developed and plagued by poverty. Several Malay Kingdoms throughout the Golden Chersonese together with Sabah and Sarawak in Borneo formed a new country known as Malaysia inherited some welfare policies from its former British rule. The Quran was revealed by Allah to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as a guidance for mankind. The most important guidance is that Allah guides mankind to know Him and believe in Him. Besides revealing the matters of faiths, the Quran also contains principles concerning relationship among human beings. Every member of society is obliged to share his wealth with the less fortunate. The act of charity towards the poor and needy has been mentioned by Allah in the Quran. The Prophet (peace be upon him) and the Caliphs are great examples of all time in doing welfare. Therefore Malaysia as a predominantly Muslim country developed her own unique way in welfare and social protection.