Conceptualising Sustainable Livelihood for Families of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Malaysia Through Cash Waqf Blockchain

The Shared Prosperity Vision 2030 upholds the responsibility to ensure that the well-being of all Malaysians is improved. In line with SPV 2030 Guiding Principles No.5 on inclusivity, children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are also not left behind. ASD is a prevalent developmental disability characterized by differences in the cognitive process, social functioning, communication skills, behavior, and interests. These differences require multidisciplinary approaches such as early intervention programs, prescribed medication, and customised therapy sessions to ensure long-term well-being for children with ASD. However, these approaches require high expenses and this has intensified the burden on the family with ASD children. Even though the Malaysian Social Welfare Department has allocated financial assistance, it is still far from meeting the needs of children with ASD. In this context, waqf has long provided funds in alleviating the financial difficulties for communities. With the financial technology of blockchain, raising cash waqf can perform better since blockchain has the feature of a digital format whereby the entries are permanent, transparent, and searchable by all parties involved in the waqf activities. Thus, the study aims to develop a model for cash waqf blockchain in supporting the financing of families of children with ASD. Besides, the research also aims to investigate the economic burden of parents of children with ASD in Malaysia since the latest information on the total costs is unknown. Knowledge of this information is important for policy development and resource distribution.