National Anthem Practices are Permissible, Says Fatwa Council

The Supreme Council for Islamic Fatwa (SCIF) has said that it is permissible to engage in certain patriotic expressions, including singing the national anthem, saluting the national flag, standing during the national anthem.

According to the council, these actions are not associated with any religious obligations in Islam but are rooted in cultural habits. The fatwa emphasises that customary practices can only be deemed impermissible (haram) with concrete evidence, and in this case, no such evidence exists.

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The council’s ruling comes in response to a recent decision by the new government’s cabinet to reintroduce the national anthem in schools, aiming to foster a sense of patriotism among students. Previously, singing the national anthem was a common practice in Maldivian schools, but it was discontinued in some institutions due to religious differences.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has taken steps to reinstate the national anthem in all schools during the second term of the academic year.

Additionally, the government plans to implement national-level programs in schools, during Week 14, focusing on enhancing students’ understanding of Islam, nationalism, and the history and culture of Maldives.