Can a waqif's conditions be changed under the principle that the ruler's action is tied to public interest?

Summary

Changing a waqif's conditions under the principle that a ruler's actions are bound to public interest (maslahah) is permissible. Only the Penang State Islamic Religious Council may make the change, after obtaining the opinion of the State Fatwa Committee, and the original purpose of the waqf must be kept. Changes are allowed when the property loses its benefit, is involved in istibdal, is converted to a more beneficial purpose, or is affected by a natural disaster. The fatwa classifies maslahah as mu'tabarah, mulghah and mursalah, and accepts mursalah as a valid basis subject to stated conditions.

Written in our own words from the original fatwa — check the source before acting on it.