Role of Mutawalli

Muis as Mutawalli

Muis acts as a mutawalli for two-thirds of Wakafs in Singapore. In 2001, Muis set up an asset endowment company, Warees Investments Pte Ltd, to oversee its Wakaf portfolio. Warees is a wholly owned subsidiary of Muis.

As mutawalli, Muis strives to:

• Manage the Wakaf fund efficiently and effectively
• Ensure the growth and diversification of Wakaf assets
• Maximise the potential of Wakaf properties
• Continue redeveloping all Wakaf properties in its portfolio
• Create new Wakafs to finance the needs of the Muslim community
• Channel the proceeds towards community development
• Establish Wakaf as the model formula for charitable spending

Private Mutawalli

The remainder one-third of Wakafs is managed by private mutawallis. These mutawallis are mostly relatives or descendants of the late wakifs.

As a wakif, you can apply to Muis for the appointment of a relative or a descendant to manage your Wakaf as a private mutawalli. The appointment of a private mutawalli must be submitted in writing to Muis. It will otherwise be considered void.

The obligations of your private mutawalli include the following:

• Seeking Muis’ approval before selling or purchasing assets under your Wakaf
• Submitting annual financial accounting statements to Muis
• Applying to Muis before retiring or giving up their role as your private mutawalli
• Attending periodical meetings with Muis on latest developments in the Wakaf sector