Minister of Islamic Affairs and Endowments Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has emphasised the importance of stronger international cooperation to develop the Maldives' zakat sector, improve its administration, and strengthen its role in alleviating poverty and protecting vulnerable communities.
In a message delivered at the opening ceremony of the third International Zakat Conference (INZAC), Minister Dr Shaheem highlighted the need for greater collaboration among zakat institutions to address common challenges. He stressed that effective administration, transparency and accountability remain essential to maximising the benefits of zakat and strengthening social protection.
The Minister described zakat as more than a financial obligation, highlighting its role in promoting social justice, alleviating poverty and fostering solidarity. He also emphasised its importance in protecting the dignity of those in need and strengthening compassion within society.
Reflecting on the Maldives' efforts to strengthen its zakat system, Minister Dr Shaheem highlighted the establishment of Maldives Zakat House and the formulation of the Zakat Act as important steps towards developing a stronger legal framework and ensuring responsible institutional oversight.
Building on these developments, the Minister stressed that zakat must reach eligible recipients fairly and efficiently, bringing meaningful improvements to their lives. He described zakat funds as a trust and responsibility before Allah, emphasising that their management requires sincerity, honesty, sound administrative systems and full adherence to Islamic principles.
Minister Dr Shaheem further highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability in maintaining public confidence and ensuring that zakat institutions fulfil their responsibilities.
Beyond national efforts, the Minister encouraged scholars and zakat institutions worldwide to strengthen cooperation through the exchange of knowledge and experience. He emphasised that closer collaboration would help address shared challenges and develop practical solutions that benefit Muslim communities across the world.
In this regard, Minister Dr Shaheem expressed hope that INZAC would continue to develop as a sustainable international platform for cooperation, bringing together scholars and institutions to exchange expertise and pursue common objectives.
He also expressed hope that the conference would contribute to achieving the fundamental objectives of zakat by alleviating poverty, promoting social justice and extending assistance to the most vulnerable members of society.