<![CDATA[Purpose – This study aims to develop and validate the "waqf signal model," a Sharia-compliant framework that integrates waqf assets with digital connectivity deployment in Indonesia’s frontier, outermost, and underdeveloped (3T) regions to alleviate digital inequality. It evaluates stakeholder roles, governance feasibility, Sharia alignment, operational sustainability, and the socio-economic impact of the model.Methodology – A qualitative exploratory approach was employed using a two-round Delphi technique with nine expert panelists representing telecommunications, Islamic finance, waqf management, mosque leadership, and local government. Additionally, a financial simulation was conducted to assess the operational viability of waqf-based Base Transceiver Station (BTS) deployment.Findings – The Delphi panel reached a strong consensus on the model's Shariah compatibility through contracts such as Ijarah Muntahiyah bi Tamlik (IMBT), Musyarakah, and Musharakah Mutanaqisah (MMQ). The panel underscored the necessity of multi-stakeholder governance involving nazhir, telecommunication operators, local authorities, and community wakif. A high consensus was also achieved regarding village digital outlets as dual-purpose hubs for commercial services and waqf benefit distribution. Conversely, revenue-sharing feasibility yielded mixed perspectives, highlighting the need for refined legal and contractual frameworks. Finally, the financial simulation demonstrated that operational sustainability could be achieved within approximately six years under stable market conditions.Implications – The proposed model offers a Sharia-aligned pathway for inclusive digital infrastructure, facilitating rural access to connectivity, digital financial services, and socio-economic empowerment while contributing to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 9, 10, and 17.Originality – This study pioneers the application of waqf in telecommunications, establishing an innovative model that synthesizes waqf asset utilization, BTS infrastructure deployment, multi-stakeholder governance, and rural digital inclusion.]]>
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