The first meeting of the Zakat Council was held today, with discussions centred on the operationalisation of the Maldives Zakat House (MZH) in line with the newly ratified Zakat Act. 

Members focused on ensuring effective implementation of the national zakat system within the legal and Shariah framework established under the Act.

The meeting was chaired by the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, who emphasised the importance of strengthening zakat administration to better serve communities across the Maldives.

The Zakat Council is composed of nine members representing key religious and financial institutions. Its membership includes the Minister of Islamic Affairs, a Director-General, representatives from the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA), and the Supreme Council for Islamic Fatwa. In addition, one senior official from the Ministry and two independent zakat experts appointed by the President, who must not be employees of any Government institution, also serve on the council.

The Council’s primary role is to provide strategic guidance and oversight to the Maldives Zakat House, ensuring efficient management and administration of the national zakat system.

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that zakat administration in the Maldives is carried out in full compliance with Shariah principles and the objectives of the Zakat Act.