Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has stated there is no basis for characterising the Maldives as an extremist or radical nation, emphasising such issues are being thoroughly addressed through legal and academic channels.

Speaking at Saturday night's Ahaa forum – a public dialogue series jointly organised by the President's Office and Public Service Media (PSM) – Minister Dr Shaheem responded to an attendee's question, noting that as a wholly Islamic nation, the Maldives maintains greater unity compared to other Islamic countries.

The Minister highlighted that Maldivians follow the Sunni school of Islamic thought and methodology, having historically upheld moderate religious principles. He stressed that extremism and radical ideology remain uncommon among Maldivians.

"There are no religious divisions within the Maldives. Maldivian citizens maintain and follow moderate religious principles. Extremism and related issues are not prevalent among our citizens. When such ideologies are occasionally identified in certain individuals, we address them through both legal and academic channels," he explained.

Emphasising this point further, the Minister noted that the country faces fewer such challenges compared to other Islamic nations, with existing cases being effectively addressed through academic and legal frameworks.

When asked about his message to those in the international community who portray the Maldives as radical and extremist, Minister Dr Shaheem said such individuals should be advised against making these claims.

He emphasised that the Maldives' respect for all people, commitment to peace, and kindness towards those of other faiths leaves no room for such characterisation.

"The Maldives is a nation that respects everyone, cherishes peace, and shows kindness to people of other faiths in a just manner. Therefore, there is no basis for characterising the Maldives as an extremist society," Dr Shaheem stated.

The Government continues to implement measures to protect the Maldives from extremist ideologies through education and enhanced awareness of Islamic principles, including the national Risaalath programme focused on these issues.