President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has described young khateebs as “beacons” who can bring renewed religious spirit to communities across the country.
He made the statement while addressing the closing ceremony of the Young khateebs Symposium held on Sunday.
In his address, the President highlighted the youth’s role in promoting religion and religious knowledge. He said as the Maldives celebrates 900 years since the country embraced Islam, the training of over 700 young people as young khateebs is a positive development, and a source of new strength for the Islamic spirit of the country.
The President further noted that youth have historically played an important role in Islamic scholarship and religious service. He referred to young Maldivians who made sacrifices to travel abroad and study religious knowledge from an early age. He also emphasised that youth have a role in spreading, defending and upholding Islam, adding that their contribution has an important place in Maldivian and Islamic history.
The President stated that young khatibs can become teachers who strengthen Islamic morality and shape the intellectual outlook of future generations. He encouraged them to uphold human dignity, kindness, peace and security.