Demographic determinants of charity donors and its implication for cash waqf institutions in Malaysia

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to identify the demographic groups that can be targeted for donations by the cash waqf institutions for their marketing campaigns in Malaysia. Design/methodology/approach This paper uses a structured questionnaire to acquire the understanding of Malays about the existence of poverty in Malaysia and to identify the demographic groups that can be targeted for the marketing campaigns of cash waqf institutions. The sample consisted of 430 Malays respondents residing in Selangor. The study used the methodology of Baron and Kenny for mediation analysis. Findings The finding indicates that Malays do hold sympathies towards the poor. Further investigation shows that high-income class and female are the two demographic groups that are more sympathetic towards the poor because of their strong belief in charity. Research limitations/implications The data collection is limited to Selangor only. However, it provides enough information about the demographic groups which is worth exploring for the future researchers in order to come up with marketing strategies related to cash waqf collections. Practical implications On the basis of findings, cash waqf institutions in Malaysia can come up with marketing strategies to attract high-income class and females as their potential donors. Originality/value The charity institution specifically cash waqf institutions in Malaysia are struggling to identify the right target groups for their marketing campaigns. This study used attribution theory to identify the target groups which is overshadowed by the previous research studies in the context of Malaysia.