Enhancing Welfare through Affinity Groups : An Islamic Worldview

Abstract

The aim of this research is to understand the role of the Independent Women's Affinity Groups and to review the maqashid shari'ah (Hifdzul Maal) in the activities of the Independent Women's Affinity Groups to improve the welfare of the Ngunut Village. This research is essentially qualitative. Data collection using observation, interview and documentation methods to obtain accurate, objective and concrete data. As for the questionnaire in the data collection, simply describe it in order to strengthen qualitative data. The result based on the observation, interview, shows that the welfare status of the communities in the village of Ngunut is generally good and improved. Proven with the use of natural resources by productive enterprises, human resources with recitation, the provision of training play a role in the improvement of knowledge and skills. Social capital with capital fertilization towards savings and loans, collaboration between groups / governments / privates also play a role in improving social skills. The results of the questionnaire describe how many members find benefits, ease and increased income after following the Independent Women's Affinity Groups. While, according to the Maqashid Shari'ah (Hifdzul Maal) review, the Independent Women's Affinity Groups have been doing well and in line with Islamic Shari'ah. ased on Fatwa of the National Sharia Council of the Indonesian Ulema Council No: 119/DSN-MUI/2018 about Ultra Micro Financing (Al-Tamwil Li Al.Hajah Al – Mutanahiyat Al-Shogiroh) where this group has financing / loan activities for itsembers. As for the analysis result of the loan contract / financing at Independent Women’s Affinity Groups similar with financing contract named kafalah. According to fatwa dari DSN-MUI Nomor 11/DSN-MUI/IV/2000 the contract allowed and practiced by Independent Women’s Affinity Groups does not contradict the applicable provisions. Even more convenience to members in improving the welfare.