Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has stated that the Maldives’ Zakat Act is one of the most comprehensive frameworks of its kind in the Islamic world, citing increased public confidence and record-high contributions in recent years. 

He made the remarks in an interview on MMTV, where he reflected on recent reforms and the establishment of Maldives Zakat House as a central administrative institution.

During the interview, Minister Dr Shaheem said that strengthening the Zakat system was a key electoral pledge of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, noting that the Zakat House was established to modernise the administration of Zakat collection and distribution. He described the law, passed by the People’s Majlis and ratified by the President, as a comprehensive system designed in line with contemporary administrative practices and scholarly research on Zakat.

According to the Minister, public trust in the system has risen since the Zakat House was introduced, with figures from 2024 and 2025 showing record levels of Zakat contributions. He stated that the growth in payments reflects greater confidence in the institution and the mechanisms used to collect and disburse funds. Minister Dr Shaheem also assured that funds are distributed to eligible recipients through structured and transparent channels.

The Minister added that the Zakat system currently in place is supported by strengthened procedures intended to ensure that contributions reach their rightful owners. He reiterated that improvements made under the current Administration focus on accountability, proper documentation, and clear guidance for both collection and expenditure.