The study, which surveyed 124 women from the B40 income group, found that only 12.9% of those who filed joint property claims (harta sepencarian) received their due, while just 5.6% obtained spousal maintenance (nafkah).

Many women in the study earned between RM1,000 and RM3,999 a month, with expenses often exceeding their income by 5% to 14%, forcing them into debt from housing and car loans, as well as medical bills.

Despite court rulings, the study found that many former husbands failed to comply with financial support orders, leaving women and their children in distress.

In a statement after launching a report on the findings, SIS called for reforms such as the establishment of a child support agency, the strengthening of legal frameworks, and the enforcement of financial judgments.

“This study reveals the harsh realities faced by divorced Muslim women, where systemic barriers not only deny them justice but also force them into poverty.

“We must address these challenges through robust legal reforms, stronger enforcement mechanisms, and targeted support programmes that prioritise the well-being of women and their children,” SIS spokesperson Ameena Siddiqi said.

Former chief syarie judge Ismail Yahya said while Islamic law provides clear financial protections, its implementation in courts is flawed.

“To ensure justice, courts must strictly adhere to Section 47 of the Islamic Family Law Enactment/Act, which requires all claims to be filed with the divorce application,” he said.