Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has emphasised the significance of constructing a mosque in the Maldives in memory of the late Sheikh Ibrahim Fareed, who passed away in Malaysia on June 9.

Sheikh Fareed died suddenly while visiting Malaysia, collapsing at the airport where he received immediate medical attention but, tragically, passed away shortly afterwards.

Sheikh Fareed held the esteemed positions of Mustashar of Khidhumaiy ORG in the Maldives and President of the Sharia Board. In the wake of his passing, the association promptly launched a project to honour his legacy by building a mosque in Bangladesh. Notably, the required funds were raised within a single day of opening the donation opportunity, thanks to the generous support of numerous donors.

The planned mosque in Bangladesh will span 250 square metres and is designed to accommodate up to 455 people. According to the association, approximately MVR 760,000 has been raised for its construction.

Building on this initiative, Khidhumaiy ORG has announced that, following overwhelming public support and repeated requests, it will also proceed with constructing a mosque in the Maldives in memory of Sheikh Fareed. This decision was welcomed by Minister Dr Shaheem, who described it as a commendable effort, and highlighted the greater importance of establishing a memorial within the country itself.

Furthermore, Minister Dr Shaheem proposed that the mosque include a library dedicated to Islamic knowledge, along with classrooms for Quranic education, creating a lasting endowment that would carry forward Sheikh Fareed’s legacy. To support this endeavour, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs has pledged its assistance, including the allocation of a suitable site and financial support for the mosque’s construction.

Sheikh Fareed was widely recognised for his significant contributions to the propagation of religious teachings in the Maldives. His sermons resonated with the public and left a profound and lasting impact on the community.