The Muamalat Newsletter Vol. 2 2023

FEM eNewsletter | Dec 2023 58 piece, healthcare providers must harmonize the intricacies of medical practice with the nuances of Shariah compliance. Investing in specialized training becomes imperative, bridging the gap between the worlds of medicine and faith. This calls for enriching medical professionals with Islamic knowledge while empowering Shariah Compliance Officers (SCO) with insights into the intricacies of healthcare, ensuring a seamless integration that creates a symphony of care resonating with both ethics and excellence (Shariff, 2022). Financial commitments stand as another formidable challenge in establishing Shariah- compliant healthcare (Shariff & Karim, 2022). Beyond the realmof medicine, resourcesmust be allocated for facilities, staff training, and stringent compliance audits. To tackle this, healthcare providers can explore strategic partnerships with Islamic financial institutions or adopt innovative funding models. Collaborating with ethical investors who share the vision of compassionate care can, not only provide financial support, but also align with the principles of Shariah, ensuring a sustainable and ethical financial foundation (Kamaruzzaman, 2013). Moreover, introducing Shariah compliance isn’t just a procedural shift; it’s a cultural transformation that permeates every facet of the healthcare ecosystem. Resistance from staff accustomed to traditional practices may pose a significant hurdle. According to Shariff (2022), difficulties arise when staff members lack exposure to Islamic culture. They do not exhibit an orientation towards Islam, perceiving Islam as a comprehensive framework for living. The solution? Cultivate a culture of open dialogue and education. Workshops, training sessions, and awareness programs become invaluable tools to illuminate the importance and benefits of Shariah compliance. Emphasizing the shared goal of patient well-being helps staff recognize the value of this transformative journey, fostering an environment where the principles of Shariah are embraced as integral to the holistic approach of healthcare. In the context of Shariah-compliant hospitals, these challenges take centre stage. The intricacies of blending medical expertise with Islamic principles require a careful balancing act, and the financial commitments involved in establishing and maintaining such facilities are significant. Furthermore, the cultural shift toward Shariah compliance demands not just policy changes but a change in mindset, requiring a concerted effort to educate and inspire all stakeholders involved. Despite these challenges, the promise of providing healthcare that nourishes both body and soul propels the journey forward, urging healthcare providers to overcome obstacles and create a harmonious symphony of compassionate and ethical care. Conclusion Ultimately, in the evolving landscape of healthcare, the emergence of Shariah- compliant healthcare stands as a testament to the transformative power of blending faith with medical expertise. As we witness the rise of institutions like Sultan Ahmad Shah Medical Centre @IIUM, it becomes evident that the integration of Islamic principles into healthcare isn’t just a trend but a commitment to a higher standard of compassionate and ethical care. The journey is not without challenges, requiring a delicate balance between medical proficiency and a profound understanding of Shariah principles. Yet, as the winds of change sweep across the healthcare industry, the promise of providing healthcare that nourishes both body and soul propels this transformative Ms. Anis Marhani Abd Rashid Master Student MGA8063 Seminar in Muamalat anyzrashid@raudah.usim.edu.my Mr. Muhammad Syazwan Omar Master Student MGA8063 Seminar in Muamalat m.syazwan@raudah.usim.edu.my