The roles of mosque in sympathizing the kariah members during the movement control order (MCO) period

A mosque is a special place of worship for the Muslims and it plays various significant roles including in managing the economic affairs of the community. The strong association between the mosque and the Muslim society could not be denied as a mosque is regarded as the pillar and center of Muslim activities. In handling the impact of the pandemic of covid-19 or coronavirus which hit the world in 2020, the government of Malaysia had enforced the Movement Control Order (MCO) in April 2020. The implementation of MCO had directly affected most residents in the country due to the discontinuation of certain economic activities. In dealing with the difficult situation, there is a question of whether the mosque had duly provided its kariah members with the necessary financial support and other assistance. In relation to the issue, research was carried out with the main objective of studying the effectiveness of the roles played by the mosque in taking care of the affairs of their kariah members during the period of MCO. Suggestions for improvements that should be duly considered by the mosque were also highlighted. A field study was undertaken by using questionnaires developed by the researchers. The questionnaires were distributed by using a random sampling technique to the respondents in the state of Melaka. Analysis of the data obtained from the questionnaires was made quantitatively, and it was also supported by qualitative explanations to enable the strengths, weaknesses, and recommendations for improvements to be described in detail. Besides providing feedback to the management of mosque, the study would also enlighten the opportunities for other research to be carried out on the possibilities that mosque might need to improve on its existing functions and roles in sympathizing the poor and needy group of the society.