This year Zakat Fund records highest contributions in Maldives history: Islamic Minister

Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, has announced that 2024 marks the highest contribution to the Zakat Fund in Maldivian history. Speaking on a PSM News programme, the Minister highlighted that the fund has so far collected over USD 5.8 million, with the goal of reaching USD 6.5 million by the year’s end.

During the interview, Dr. Shaheem emphasised the importance of further developing the Zakat Fund to enhance its sustainability and effectiveness. The fund is primarily used to support the poor and needy, provide educational assistance, and cover medical expenses.

In line with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s pledge, the government aims to expand the scope of the Zakat Fund by investing in Sharia-compliant ventures to grow the fund and ensure broader benefits for the community, including parents and families in need.

To streamline these efforts, the government has established the Zakat House of Maldives, a dedicated agency responsible for, collecting and distributing Zakat to eligible recipients, compiling and maintaining a register of the poor and needy in collaboration with relevant authorities and developing the Zakat Fund to ensure sustainable benefits for future generations.

This record-breaking contribution to the Zakat Fund reflects the strong commitment of Maldivians to their religious obligations and the government’s active measures to promote social welfare.