President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that, with the modernisation of the Zakat system and implementation of its principles, there will be significant positive changes to the nation's financial and social justice, as well as the general prosperity of society – and with Allah's will, Maldivians will soon see a day without extreme poverty.
The President made these remarks whilst delivering the Presidential Address at today's opening session of the People's Majlis for 2025.
Sharing the benefits gained by citizens and the nation through the establishment of Zakat House to strengthen and expand the Zakat system, the President said work has commenced to establish income-generating resources for those registered in the poverty registry. He also noted that the International Zakat Conference (INZAC) was held to develop necessary guidelines and regulations for modernising the Zakat system in a beneficial manner, and to gain technical capabilities for implementing Zakat work through modern technology.
With Allah's will, the President stated that this year is one of practical work and ahead lies a national season of delivering results. Continuing the Presidential Address, he affirmed that his current approach ensures the most important foundations in determining the state and future of the Maldivian nation are the protection of the noble Islamic religion, Maldivian identity, and Maldivian independence and sovereignty.
He provided assurance in his Presidential Address of continuing to work tirelessly with unwavering determination to maintain the Maldives as a hundred per cent Muslim nation, build a society adorned with Islamic virtues, uphold Islamic Shariah, and remain a nation that adheres to Islamic principles.
The President's statement highlighted numerous efforts made in this direction over the past year. This included designing and implementing a special programme called the ‘Risaalath Program’ targeting the entire Maldives, which was conducted across various parts of the country last year and will continue without interruption this year. He also noted the ongoing important project called ‘Namaadhu Mathiveri Kurun’ aimed at familiarising Maldivian society with the five obligatory prayers.
The President stated that as our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the most exalted leader the world has seen, arrangements have been made to conduct an ‘Islamic Leadership Management’ programme this year, targeting relevant sectors and organisations to teach and raise awareness about Islamic leadership qualities.
Additionally, the President noted that the National Council of Mosques has been re-established, and MVR 7,868,953.00 from the state budget was spent in 2024 for mosque maintenance and repairs. The Presidential Address also mentioned that 35 mosque construction projects will be carried out across various parts of the Maldives this year.
