We’re not talking about theory here. Platforms like TheLifeDAO are already using these tools to help Muslims and like-minded individuals around the world pool funds to cover end-of-life costs, not through insurance, but through real, peer-powered protection.
DAOs bring back the spirit of Ta’awun (mutual cooperation) with modern infrastructure. No shareholders. No middlemen. Just people looking after one another, with full visibility on how their money is used and where it's going.
Reclaiming the core of Islamic finance
This isn’t a trend, it’s a reset. Community-based Islamic finance brings transparency back into how decisions are made. It gives people a voice in systems that affect their future. And it revives the real meaning of halal finance, not just in contracts, but in purpose.
It’s about building systems that feel spiritually aligned, not just technically compliant.
The Qur’an says, “Indeed, Allah commands justice and good conduct…” (Surah An-Nahl, 16:90).
Justice doesn’t trickle down from the top. It starts with putting the ummah back at the center.
Where do you start?
You don’t need to be a scholar or fintech expert to be part of this shift. It starts with asking better questions.
Does this product actually help the people it claims to serve? Is it accessible and transparent? Do I have a voice in how it works? And if the answer is no, maybe it’s time to look elsewhere.
Instead of relying on systems built for profit, consider those designed around people.
Support platforms that prioritize shared governance, spiritual integrity, and collective benefit. Whether it’s a local cooperative or a global DAO, choosing values-aligned alternatives is more than just a financial move, it’s a stand for justice.
Sharene Lee is the chief operating office & co-founder of Takadao
This agreement with the Incorporated Trustees of the Islamic Community Fund of Hong Kong will lead to the establishment of a halal-related quality certification (Q mark).
Products and services with the Q mark will be certified by the fund. (SCMP)
Trade Developments
Image Courtesy: Government of Dubai - Media Office
Malaysia
Johor eyes halal goldmine with 2030 plan to attract global investors, create high-income jobs
Johor is set to launch its Halal Advancement Plan 2030 this year, aiming to become the first Malaysian state with a comprehensive halal economic development framework.
The plan focuses on enhancing the halal ecosystem by creating high-income jobs, producing globally competitive halal products, and supporting local entrepreneurs.
Key initiatives include registering 500 halal companies annually, accelerating certification, and providing incentives to expand market reach. (Malay Mail)
Malaysia
Penang becomes first state to establish council to strengthen halal industry
Penang has become the first Malaysian state to establish a development council, aimed at strengthening the halal industry.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow emphasized that this move reflects the state's commitment to becoming a hub for the production, processing, and export of halal products to ASEAN and global markets.
Penang is also the only state conducting medical device audits under all nine Malaysian Halal Certification Schemes. (Sinar Daily)
UAE
UAE approves strategy for Islamic finance, halal industry
The UAE Cabinet has approved a national strategy for Islamic finance and the halal industry.
The strategy focuses on developing the Islamic financial industry, leading global Islamic finance activities, and increasing the export of halal products worldwide. (Sinar Daily)
Indonesia / Vietnam
Indonesia eyes more partnership with Vietnam in halal-certified production, cosmetics
Indonesia is eager to collaborate with Vietnam in the halal industry, sharing its expertise in halal standards across sectors such as food processing, cosmetics, tourism, and halal financial services.
This was shared by Agustaviano Sofjan, Indonesia's consul general in Ho Chi Minh City, at a workshop on international cooperation in the halal industry.
He emphasized that the halal industry serves both the global Muslim community and international consumers seeking quality and safety, and that Indonesia is ready to support Vietnam in these areas. (Halal Focus)