President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has expressed condolences on the passing of Sheikh Ismail Mohamed, describing him as one of the country's pioneering religious scholars.

In a post shared on X, the President said he was deeply saddened by the death of Sheikh Ismail, who was honoured with the National Award of Honour in recognition of his contributions to promoting Islamic awareness, teaching religious knowledge and serving the community.

The President noted that Sheikh Ismail played a significant role in spreading Islamic knowledge in the Maldives and helped many Maldivian students pursue higher religious education abroad. He also highlighted the late scholar's efforts in translating and publishing various Islamic books in the Dhivehi language.

President Dr Muizzu said Sheikh Ismail belonged to the earliest generation of religious scholars to emerge in the Maldives and had left a lasting impact through his dedication to Islamic education.

Extending his sympathies to the family of the late scholar, the President prayed for Allah's forgiveness and mercy upon Sheikh Ismail and for him to be granted a place in Paradise.

The funeral prayer for Sheikh Ismail Mohamed is scheduled to be held at the Islamic Centre after noon prayers today.