TASARRUF INVOLVING CHILDRENS PROPERTY: A FIQH-BASED ANALYSIS OF ISLAMIC PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

Every child has the right to own property, even though they may still be of a young age. However, their physical and mental limitations make them incapable of managing and administering property independently and in accordance with Islamic law (shar). Therefore, this article discussed the management of childrens property from an Islamic perspective by focusing on the legal principles and the roles of guardians (wali) and trustees (wasi) as administrators of such property. This qualitative study used the content analysis method drawing upon primary Islamic sources such as the al-Quran, Hadith, classical and contemporary juristic opinions, as well as other relevant documents. Findings indicate that childrens property should be managed by guardians or trustees who are authoritative, trustworthy and possess a high level of integrity due to the childrens physical and mental incapacity. Moreover, a childs eligibility to perform legal and religious obligations varies according to their developmental stages, beginning with the foetus, newborn, discerning child (mumayyiz), and those who have reached the age of puberty (baligh). Children who have yet to attain maturity are required to fulfil shar obligations and will have their property administered by a responsible guardian or wasi. This study is significant as it clarifies property management principles and guidelines for children according to Islamic law to ensure that their welfare and best interests are safeguarded.