The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has announced that the first session of its annual Ihya Forum series for Ramadan will be held in Malé tonight, marking the start of the nationwide programme aimed at promoting religious awareness during the holy month.

The forum will commence at 9:30 p.m., with the keynote address to be delivered by Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed.

A total of 18 Ihya Forum sessions will be conducted this year, with eight scheduled to take place in Malé City. According to the Ministry, forums in Malé will be held every Monday and Friday night from tonight until 15 March.

In addition to Malé, Ihya Forums will be conducted in 10 islands across the Maldives between 20 February and 11 March, following assessments carried out by the Ministry based on proposals submitted by island councils and local readiness to host the programme. The Ihya Forum has been held annually since 2022, with the number of participating islands increasing each year.

This year’s island sessions will be held in Thaa Dhiyamigili on 20 February, Thinadhoo City on 23 February, Gaafu Dhaalu Madaveli on 24 February, Gaafu Dhaalu Gaddhoo on 25 February, Haa Alifu Ihavandhoo on 27 February, Lhaviyani Naifaru on 3 March, Kaafu Himmafushi on 4 March, Kaafu Guraidhoo on 6 March, Laamu Maavah on 9 March, and Raa Meedhoo on 11 March.

The Ministry said the Ihya Forum is among its longest-running outreach initiatives, providing religious guidance, opportunities for public engagement through question-and-answer sessions, and the distribution of religious books and prizes.

As part of this year’s programme, the Ministry will also produce short video content addressing frequently asked religious questions for social media platforms. Special sessions will be conducted for staff of Government institutions and non-governmental organisations on making effective use of time during Ramadan, alongside a dedicated programme for children and a large public lecture in Malé City to mark the start of Ramadan.