à This article seeks to delve into the dimension of converts through a debate of the definition and implications towards the contemprary Muslim society especially in Malaysia. There are several terms that have been used by our Muslim communities in Malaysia as substitute to the meaning converts itself such as New members, Muslim brothers/sisters and Our members. These terms are seen to be closer to the Muslim community as the meanings are more inclusive like togetherness, amicability, brotherhood, solidarity as compared to the word mualaf (converts) itself. Multi-racial and cross-cultural factors in Malaysia also give an impact to the definition of converts so much so that the impact is overwhelming to the Muslim institutions in charge of the welfare of converts, especially in terms of the zakat as aid distributed to this group. In this article, the definition of converts will be debated in detail and comprehensively according to the views raised by ulama and interpretations from the traditional and contemporary Islamic perspectives. With this in mind, several great implications from the branding of converts will be analysed through the practice of converts management by authorities such as State Islamic Council and State Zakat Institution in developing and empowering converts.

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