Security experts, educators, and government officials convened for a crucial symposium aimed at raising awareness and understanding of the pervasive dangers of extremism.
Jointly organised by the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) and the National Counter Terrorism Centre, the symposium being held from 15 to 16 October underscored the global nature of the threat and the necessity for unified action.
The inaugural session saw approximately 80 participants from security, law enforcement, and educational sectors engage in critical discussions.
Addressing the gathering, Minister of State for Defence, Aishath Safoora, expressed her hope that the programme would equip attendees with invaluable insights.
"We are honoured to have scholars from around the world share their expertise with our local facilitators. Their participation reminds us that the fight against extremism is not the work of one nation. It is a collective moral duty shared by all who value peace, moderation, and compassion. Beyond awareness, it is a moral, civic, and educational responsibility that defines who we are as a nation,” she said.
The IMCTC, an intergovernmental alliance of 43 Muslim-majority countries founded in 2015 by Saudi Arabia, is actively engaged in awareness and capacity-building initiatives across its member states to combat terrorism and extremism.
This symposium is part of a broader effort, with previous programmes this year having focused on enhancing the capabilities of religious scholars, media professionals, and educators in confronting the threat of extremism.