Muslims must not delay writing a will

PETALING JAYA: As life is not eternal, says as-Salihin Trustees Berhad president and chief executive officer Abdul Aziz Peru Mohamed, it would be prudent to do your estate planning early so that heirs are not left in limbo and can reap its benefits.

He trusts many Muslims know this, yet they put it off from a mistaken belief that it is for old people to do and that writing a ‘wasiat’ (will) early is akin to wishing for calamity.

“If you love your family, make sure your assets are divided according to your wishes,” advised Abdul Aziz in an interview at his workplace in Kelana Jaya.

“Many a time, when someone leaves this world without a ‘wasiat’, the savings and possessions – which you worked so hard to build up – are frozen and the heirs are placed in a difficult situation as they can’t take advantage of these.

“There are two crucial aspects to estate planning – administration and distribution,” he said.

He recommended that an individual appoint a company that understands the intricacies of asset distribution according to Islamic and civil law, as ‘wasi’ (executor).

As-Salihin, established in 2004, is a Malaysian trustee company that focuses on Islamic estate planning.

A company with this expertise will make the whole process easier compared to selecting a ‘wasi’ from among the heirs. The company is neutral in its capacity as executor and administrator.

Planning ahead will help prevent the pitfalls of inheritance division and ensure beneficiaries are satisfied.

“Don’t wait too long as it is a matter of your beneficiaries’ wellbeing,” said Abdul Aziz, assuring that there are experts at hand to help. - Bernama