First Fatwa Conference Highlights Religious Society as Key Government Priority

First-Ever Fatwa Conference Held in the Maldives

The Supreme Council for Fatwa, in collaboration with the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, hosted the first Fatwa Conference yesterday. 

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This event took place at the Islamic Centre in Malé, bringing together religious scholars and imams to discuss key issues in Islamic jurisprudence.

The theme of the conference was “The Role of Fatwa in Reforming Society” and it serves as a platform for sharing insights on the importance of fatwas in promoting religious unity and Islamic teachings. The event included panel discussions led by prominent scholars from the Maldives.

In a statement, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs outlined the purpose of the seminar, which includes addressing religious differences, discussing societal matters, and fostering collaboration to reform society in a structured manner. 

Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohammed Shaheem Ali Saeed, highlighted the critical role of fatwas in Islamic law, stressing the need for careful consideration of contemporary issues to prevent divisions within the Muslim community. He also pointed to the government’s commitment to strengthening the fatwa system in the country, noting the recent appointment of members to the Fatwa Council, which had long been incomplete. 

Dr. Shaheem reiterated that the advice of religious scholars would continue to inform the formulation of Islamic policy and governance in the Maldives.

Minister Shaheem: Priority is to Build a Religious Society

Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed announced a religious awareness programme outlined as part of the government’s commitment to fostering a society with a strong focus on prayer. 

In a social media post, Dr Shaheem explained that the initiative aims to cultivate a nationwide love for prayer, targeting people of all ages. One of the ministry’s key actions has been to provide training and knowledge programmes for Imams and religious scholars, equipping them to meet the challenges posed by globalisation. Local Imams have also been offered various national and international training opportunities as part of these efforts.

Among the most popular initiatives, the ministry highlighted the “Khatheeb Programme,” which targets students who have completed grades 10 and 12. The programme aims to deepen participants’ understanding of the Holy Quran and the core pillars of Islam.