The utilization of Waqf, or Islamic endowment, presents a promising avenue for fostering sustainable development, particularly in the realm of mangrove restoration within coastal areas. We delineates seven compelling reasons why the Waqf system offers a superior framework for rejuvenating mangrove ecosystems compared to conventional grant schemes or project-based approaches, which exemplifies the practical implementation of Waqf principles to support mangrove conservation endeavors.

Waqf, rooted in Islamic philanthropy, embodies a timeless tradition of dedicating assets for the betterment of society. In recent years, its application has transcended traditional domains to encompass environmental conservation, notably in the restoration of mangrove habitats along coastal regions. We elucidates the inherent advantages of employing Waqf mechanisms for mangrove restoration and underscores the pivotal role they play in advancing sustainable development goals.

1. Perpetual Conservation: The foundational principle of Waqf ensures perpetual ownership and stewardship of designated assets, thereby safeguarding mangrove lands from the threats of deforestation and degradation. Unlike conventional systems prone to tenure insecurity and land use fluctuations, Waqf provides a steadfast framework for long-term conservation efforts.
2. Community Engagement: Central to Waqf-based initiatives is the active involvement of local communities in mangrove restoration endeavors. By instilling a sense of ownership and communal responsibility, Waqf projects foster sustainable conservation practices while nurturing social cohesion within coastal communities.
3. Cultural Relevance: Waqf-based approaches resonate deeply with local cultural norms and values, thereby fostering greater acceptance and efficacy among community members. By aligning with indigenous practices, Waqf initiatives engender a profound connection to the land, propelling collective efforts towards mangrove conservation.
4. Financial Stability: The endowment nature of Waqf furnishes a sustainable reservoir of funds for mangrove restoration activities, obviating reliance on external donors and ensuring financial resilience over the long term. This stability underpins consistent investment in conservation efforts, thereby bolstering the resilience of coastal ecosystems.
5. Conflict Resolution: Waqf mechanisms elucidate clear ownership and management rights, mitigating conflicts over mangrove resources and fostering collaborative governance frameworks. Through consensus-building and stakeholder engagement, Waqf initiatives engender harmonious relationships conducive to effective conservation outcomes.
6. Customization: Flexibility lies at the heart of Waqf, allowing for tailored approaches to mangrove restoration that address local needs and priorities. By adapting strategies to unique ecological contexts and community dynamics, Waqf projects enhance the efficacy and relevance of conservation interventions.
7. Multifaceted Benefits: Beyond ecological restoration, Waqf-based mangrove conservation yields a myriad of ancillary benefits, including coastal protection, livelihood enhancement, and cultural preservation. This multifaceted approach underscores the holistic nature of sustainable development facilitated by Waqf endowments.

Better Together Indonesia initiate a cooperation with Mangrove Waqf (https://mangrovewaqf.org/), through the allocation of 18 hectares of privately owned land in West Lombok and East Lombok for a Waqf project, epitomizes the convergence of Islamic principles with environmental stewardship. By extending invitations to Waqf contributors from the Middle East region, we exemplifies the collaborative spirit underpinning Waqf-driven conservation efforts.

Author: Fuad Andhika Rahman, S.Pi, M.Sc