Zakat collection reaches nearly USD 6.5 million: Islamic Minister

Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has highlighted the significant progress of the Zakat system in the Maldives at the opening ceremony of the International Zakat Conference. He disclosed that, thanks to government efforts to raise awareness, the amount of Zakat collected has grown from USD 906,300 in the past to nearly USD 6.5 million today.

Minister Shaheem attributed much of this success to the establishment of a dedicated agency under the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, supported by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s commitment to developing it in line with Islamic jurisprudence. The Minister also praised the unprecedented cooperation from President Muizzu, describing it as the most comprehensive support ever provided by a Maldivian leader.

The Minister emphasized that all Zakat contributions are managed in strict accordance with Islamic Sharia principles and expressed hope that legal measures would continue to improve the system. He reflected on how Zakat contributions have grown significantly since 2008.

Director General of Zakat House, Izzuddin Adnan, outlined the conference’s goal of establishing a practical Zakat framework tailored to the Maldives’ social and economic needs, addressing contemporary Fqih issues to promote social equality. Vice-Chancellor of the Islamic University of Maldives, Dr. Ali Zahir, expressed hope that the conference would offer insights to improve Zakat practices and enhance its role in poverty reduction.

The International Zakat Conference 2024 aims to foster a sustainable Zakat system in the Maldives. It has gathered scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to explore ways to strengthen Zakat administration, positioning it as a vital tool for social welfare and economic stability. The event includes participants from various Maldivian institutions and Malaysia.