President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu decides to facilitate free Hajj pilgrimmage trips for 50 underprivileged individuals as soon as possible, as part of his pledge to send 1,000 poor persons for free Hajj pilgrimages.
Speaking at a press conference, President Muizzu said that the Cabinet has approved the facilitation of Hajj pilgrimage trips for 1,000 underprivileged individuals at the government's expense. He also said that 50 of the individuals will be sent to Hajj as soon as possible, adding that a certain number would be sent to Hajj each year. He expressed hope that his initiative to send 1,000 underprivileged individuals to Hajj will continue on as a permanent process after five years.
Additionally, President Muizzu said that the government will consider the register of the poor and needy of the Ministry of Islamic Affairs when choosing individuals for Hajj pilgrimages. He also said that the individuals will be chosen in a lucky draw without the use of an electronic system.
During his campaign, President Muizzu also pledged to increase the annual Hajj pilgrimage quota of the Maldives from 1,000 to 2,000. He further vowed to enhance and broaden the services provided by the Maldives Hajj Corporation Limited, expedite Hajj pilgrimages, and clear the current backlog of Hajj pilgrims within a two-year timeframe.