The Maldives on Saturday marked the 863rd anniversary of the day it embraced Islam.
Historical writings show that Maldivians denounced Buddism and accepted Islam as their religion in the month of Rabeeul Aakhir 548 AH. It is officially believed that the person who invited Maldivians to accept the religion of Islam was Abul Barakath al-Barbary from Morocco.
Islam remains the only religion in the Maldives since its acceptance in the year 548 AH.
The Day Maldives Embraced Islam was first celebrated in the early rule of Sultan Mohamed Fareed the first. Following a declaration made by the cabinet, the day was first observed on Rabeeul Aakhir 2, 1374 AH (November 28, 1954).
After a 33-year hiatus, the Government once again decided to commemorate the day to promote religious unity among the people. The decision was made at a cabinet meeting held on Muharram 29, 1421 AH (May 4, 2000).
The day Maldives embraced Islam is commemorated annually on Rabeeul Aakhir 2.