The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has announced the completion of date distribution in the Male' region, which was part of the 50-tonne gift from Saudi Arabia.

Distribution of Saudi-gifted dates completed in Male' region

The dates, gifted by the Saudi government to Maldivian citizens for the year 1446, arrived in the Maldives last December, with distribution commencing on January 20.

Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, Minister of Islamic Affairs, confirmed that the allocated portion for the Male' region has now been fully distributed. He highlighted that this marks the first instance in recent history where date distribution was accomplished prior to the commencement of Ramadan.

The Ministry revealed that the Saudi gift comprises 25,000 packets of dates, with an allocation rate of 25 packets per 100 households. For cities and island communities, distribution operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with each household entitled to one packet.

Distribution efforts in Male', Hulhumale', and Vilimale' were conducted through the Islamic Centre under the Ministry's supervision. For outlying islands and atolls, local and city councils will oversee the distribution process.

The Ministry has also made provisions for organisations arranging Ramadan iftar programmes or communal breaking of fast. These organisations were previously invited to register their interest with the Ministry of Islamic Affairs to receive their allocation of dates.