<![CDATA[Zakat represents a fundamental instrument of Islamic social finance with significant potential to contribute to Islamic economic development. However, conventional zakat distribution that focuses primarily on short-term consumption has limited capacity to generate sustainable economic independence among mustahik. This study aims to develop a conceptual model for optimizing productive zakat as an instrument of sustainable economic empowerment within the framework of Islamic economic development. The study employs a qualitative conceptual approach through a systematic review of relevant literature on zakat, productive zakat, economic empowerment, Islamic social finance, and maqashid al-shariah. The analysis focuses on identifying the mechanisms through which productive zakat can transform mustahik from passive recipients into economically independent actors. The findings indicate that productive zakat can contribute to poverty reduction and inclusive economic development when it is supported by accurate beneficiary identification, productive capital assistance, entrepreneurship training, continuous mentoring, institutional governance, and impact evaluation. The proposed model integrates five dimensions: zakat collection optimization, targeted distribution, productive asset development, capacity building, and sustainable monitoring. Furthermore, the model demonstrates that productive zakat should be oriented toward the achievement of maqashid al-shariah, particularly the protection and development of wealth (hifz al-mal) and the enhancement of human welfare.]]>
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