Zakat Fund to expand assistance for poor and needy

Islamic minister Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has announced plans to expand the scope of assistance provided through the Zakat Fund, with proposals to include medical care, education and housing.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the International Zakat Conference, Minister Shaheem said a policy paper on the matter is being prepared for submission to cabinet.

“If we can develop this, I am sure a good society will be created in the Maldives. Everyone among the recipients of zakat can be developed,” he said.

Minister Shaheem stressed that zakat is the only pillar of Islam that can evolve according to changing times and circumstances, adding that a “contemporary definition” of poverty and need was essential.

The minister said Maldives aims to become a global leader in zakat administration, highlighting the government’s proposed Zakat Bill, now before parliament.

He described it as “much more complete” than legislation in other countries, incorporating both administrative and judicial mechanisms, as well as an Investment Advisory Committee to manage funds.

“The Zakat Act of Maldives has come into existence,” he said.

Minister Shaheem said the bill, drafted with input from scholars at last year’s Zakat Conference, is expected to be passed in October and later translated and shared internationally.