This article examines the challenges of managing the estates of converts to Islam (muallaf) through an analysis of juristic differences among classical Muslim scholars (fuqaha’) on inheritance between Muslims and non-Muslims, and the practical implications of these differences within Malaysia’s multi-religious society. The discussion focuses on the legal position of the muallaf as an heir (or potential heir), particularly in situations where close family members remain non-Muslim. This study adopts a qualitative, in the form of analysis (library-based) approach by analysing the evidences, reasoning, and inheritance principles advanced by the four main Sunni schools of law (Hanafi, Shafi’I, and Hanbali), alongside selected contemporary perspectives. The findings indicate that the majority position maintains a firm rule that difference of religion constitutes a bar to inheritance; however, the schools differ in certain application-level details; including scenarios where an heir embraces Islam prior to the distribution of the estate and discussions on public interest (maslahah) in contemporary discourse. The article also identifies key drivers of confusion among converts and heirs, including divergent juristic opinions, limited understanding of faraid, non-uniformity in fatwa implementation across states, and insufficient proactive outreach by religious and legal institutions. These factors contribute to delays, jurisdictional disputes, and the risk of unclaimed estates. Accordingly, the article proposes stronger standardisation of guidance, enhanced faraid literacy, and more systematic advisory mechanisms to safeguard the rights of muallaf in line with the objectives of Shariah (maqadis al-shariah).

KEYWORDS
Muallaf, estate administration, faraid, cross-religious inheritance, state fatwa, Shariah/Civil jurisdiction

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