Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Ahmed Zahir Ali has revealed efforts are underway to draft a bill to strengthen all Waqf-related matters in the Maldives.
Islamic Minister Zahir expressed hope to send the draft bill to the Attorney General's Office (AGO) before the end of the year, adding necessary efforts are underway to draft the bill. The minister said the bill will detail what is required to be done regarding donations of land and apartments as charitable endowments under Islamic law. Stating the importance of such a law to be in force, he revealed that more buildings are being constructed as Waqf. As such he noted the construction of a 10-storey Waqf building on a 20-acre land in Hulhumale' phase II.
The Daarul Iman, which opened in 2017, is currently the only Waqf building in the country. However, the land where the Zikra Mosque was located was also handed over to develop a Waqf building. The agreement was nullified due to corruption allegations and a temporary mosque was built on the land plot. The proceeds from the rent of the Waqf buildings will be used for the construction and renovations of mosques.
Waqf refers to donations or religious endowments, and disbursement of the funds for Shariah-compliant projects such as mosques or religious schools.