Social Entrepreneurship Education for Aging Society Preparedness: A Malaysian Case Study of SEEDS@WAKAF

Department of Statistic Malaysia reported Malaysian in transition to an aged-nation status by 2030, social impact including increase demand in healthcare service and equipment are projected. The SEEDS@WAKAF social entrepreneurship incubator by Politeknik Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Shah sustainable healthcare equipment solutions. Exemplifies a transformative model addressing these challenges through the integration of Islamic finance instruments like waqf. This initiative empowers Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students by engaging them in refurbishing and redistributing medical equipment to underserved elderly and low-income communities. The program operates through a collaborative network involving government agencies such as Perbadanan Wakaf Selangor (PWS) and Menteri Besar Selangor Incorporation (MBI), NGOs, and corporate partners, ensuring both operational and financial sustainability. It aligns closely with the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2015–2025 (Higher Education), emphasizing the development of holistic, entrepreneurial, and socially responsible graduates. Through hands-on activities such as medical equipment repair, marketing, and community outreach, students acquire technical skills, interpersonal competencies, and entrepreneurial experience. SEEDS@WAKAF also contributes to Malaysia’s Twelfth Plan and Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by bridging healthcare gaps for marginalized populations. By integrating education, Islamic finance, and community service, this initiative offers a scalable model that addresses social and healthcare challenges in an aging society while fostering student transformation.