P101 The Smart Mosque for Digital Transformation: Empowering the Muslim Community in Kuching, Sarawak

Abstract

Digital transformation has emerged as an important approach to improving institutional governance across many sectors, including religious institutions. In Kuching, Sarawak, although internet access is widespread and digital technologies are readily available, mosque administration continues to depend largely on conventional management practices. The use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is generally confined to social media communication, whereas core administrative activities, including financial management, stakeholder engagement, and digital donation services, have yet to be widely adopted. This gap reflects the lack of a comprehensive digital governance framework that is aligned with the operational needs and socio-cultural context of mosques in Sarawak. As a result, opportunities to strengthen the role of mosques as centres for community development and social well-being remain underutilized. This study proposes the development of a Smart Mosque Model that combines digital technologies with community-oriented governance to improve mosque management and service delivery. The objectives are to assess the current level of ICT adoption in mosque administration, examine stakeholders' perceptions of digital mosque services, and identify the factors that facilitate digital transformation. Drawing on theories of technology adoption, community engagement, and Islamic governance, the proposed model offers a practical framework for supporting digital governance while respecting the religious values and cultural context of mosque institutions. The findings are expected to provide useful insights for policymakers and mosque administrators, while contributing to ongoing efforts to promote effective, inclusive, and sustainable digital transformation within religious institutions.