Over MVR 100 Million Collected as Zakat Last Year, Says Minister Shaheem

Minister for Islamic Affairs, Dr Mohhamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, described the past two years as the most notable in terms of zakat collected in the Maldives, with over MVR 100 million collected in 2024.

Speaking on Public Service Media’s Raajje Miadhu program last night, he said the large amount of zakat collected reflects the increased trust the public has in the system now.

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Commenting on the Zakat Act ratified yesterday by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, Minister Shaheem said the legislation integrates the zakat system into the country’s legal framework, drawing on recent research. He noted that zakat is one of Islam’s pillars that can be adapted to contemporary needs, allowing collection methods to align with community and economic realities.

Previously, zakat was administered according to Ministry of Islamic Affairs policies, some gazetted and some internal. Minister Shaheem said giving the system legal authority is crucial to building trust, enabling audits, publishing accounts, and ensuring transparent management.

“A religious institution has been granted legal status, creating trust. A framework will be established for audits, accounts will be public, and funds will be spent transparently. Many positive changes will follow once this law is enacted,” he said.

The Zakat Act provides a clear legal structure to achieve zakat’s core purposes under Islam. It defines types of zakat, those obligated to pay, and categories of wealth subject to zakat. The law also sets principles for the distribution and use of funds, aiming to promote social welfare and reduce disparities in living standards.