Minister Says 2026 Will Be Key Year for Islamic Affairs Ministry

Islamic Affairs Minister Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said 2026 will be a landmark year for the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, with the results of major initiatives launched over the past two years expected to become visible.

The minister made the remarks while speaking at a ceremony held yesterday to launch the ministry’s 2026 Action Plan and Activity Calendar.

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Dr Shaheem said several large-scale programmes implemented by the ministry are set to show tangible progress next year, including ongoing waqf projects. He added that much of the construction work on mosques whose foundations have already been laid is expected to be completed in 2026.

He also highlighted the planned expansion of the “Young Khatib” programme, noting that additional rounds will be conducted to train and produce more young religious orators.

Emphasising the importance of structured planning, Dr Shaheem said all initiatives must be carried out in line with a clear and coordinated action plan. He credited the ministry’s staff for the progress achieved so far, saying their commitment and hard work over the past two years had been central to the successful implementation of its programmes.

The minister further said the ministry plans to introduce a range of programmes in 2026 aimed at strengthening staff capacity and supporting professional development within the institution.