Journal of Islamic Economic Laws
Vol. 9 No. 02 (2026): July

Measuring Intellectual Capital in Non-Profit Organizations: An Exploratory Study of Waqf Institutions in Malaysia

Abdelkader Laallam (Department of Finance, School of Business, King Faisal University)



Article Info

Publish Date
25 Aug 2026

Abstract

In the era of knowledge-based economies, successful organizations are those that recognize, manage, and leverage intellectual capital (IC) to enhance their activities and improve organizational performance, thereby gaining a competitive advantage. This study aims to identify and examine the role and significance of IC components within Malaysian waqf institutions. Data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 202 waqf employees across five State Islamic Religious Councils (SIRCs) in Malaysia. The data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) to test the path relationships among the study constructs.The findings indicate that human capital, technological capital, and spiritual capital are positively and significantly associated with organizational performance. In contrast, relational capital, structural capital, and social capital were not found to have a significant impact within the context of Malaysian waqf institutions. This study offers novel insights into the strategic role of IC in the performance of waqf institutions, particularly in a non-profit Islamic context. By integrating knowledge and IC concepts, the study provides a foundational framework to better understand and address long-standing challenges in waqf institutions, such as mismanagement and lack of accountability. The findings have practical implications for both Malaysian and global waqf administrators.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

jisel

Publisher

Subject

Religion Humanities Economics, Econometrics & Finance Law, Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice Social Sciences

Description

Journal of Islamic Economic Laws (JISEL) is published by the Department of Islamic Economic Laws, Faculty of Islamic Studies, Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta. The journal provides a platform for scholarly research that bridges theoretical perspectives and practical developments in the field of ...