Muizzu Inaugurates Zakat House to Strengthen Maldives’ Zakat System

President Mohammed Muizzu officially inaugurated the Zakat House in a special ceremony held at the Islamic Center today. The agency, established on December 18, 2023, falls under the purview of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, further highlighting its strategic role in the Maldives’ Islamic financial landscape.

The ceremony, attended by several state ministers, the President of the Supreme Council of Islamic Fatwa, and former ministers of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, celebrated the establishment of this institution dedicated to the principles of Zakat.

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Addressing the gathering, the Minister of Islamic Affairs Mohamed Shaheem, expressed his joy, stating, “This is a very significant day in the Islamic history of the Maldives and the history of the ministry.” He extended gratitude to Muizzu for his commitment to promoting Zakat and ensuring its benefits reach the intended beneficiaries.

The Zakat House of the Maldives, established under Article 116 of the Constitution of the Republic of the Maldives, operates with the goal of strengthening the Zakat system and expanding the Zakat Fund. The agency, as part of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, plays a pivotal role in ensuring the widespread availability of Zakat benefits to those in need.

Among its responsibilities, the Zakat House is tasked with organizing the collection and distribution of Zakat to eligible beneficiaries. Additionally, the agency announces the property Zakat rate every six months and collaborates with relevant authorities to compile and maintain a register of the poor and needy. The President’s initiative includes the development of the Zakat Fund, investments in Sharia-permitted areas, and a focus on increasing the fund’s benefits for the welfare of the community.