The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has announced that tomorrow, Wednesday, 18 February, will be the first day of Ramadan 1447 in the Maldives.

The announcement was made following a meeting of the national Fatwa Committee convened to determine the sighting of the new moon for the holy month. In its decision, the committee stated that the crescent moon of Ramadan had been confirmed in accordance with Shariah principles in several Islamic countries.

In line with the established procedures observed in the Maldives for confirming the beginning of Ramadan and Shawwal, the Ministry declared that Wednesday, 18 February, corresponds to the first day of Ramadan for the Hijri year 1447.

In its statement, the Ministry urged all citizens to observe the obligatory fasts of Ramadan and to devote themselves to prayer and good deeds during the sacred month. It also encouraged the public to seek the blessings and forgiveness of Almighty Allah and to make the most of the spiritual opportunities presented by Ramadan.