Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that all mosques in the Malé area will be newly built by the end of next year.

Speaking to MMTV, the Minister said the Ministry of Islamic Affairs is currently implementing 70 projects valued at over MVR 1 billion, with the highest priority placed on the construction of mosques and Islamic centres across the country.

Referring to the Dhidhdhoo Islamic Centre project, the Minister said funding for the project was initiated by the previous administration a month before the presidential election, despite not having funds secured. He said President Dr Mohamed Muizzu had given special attention to the project and ensured the allocation of funds to facilitate its completion.

The Minister said the Government has placed particular emphasis on mosque development in Malé area, noting that multiple projects have already commenced with the support of sponsors. He added that five new mosques, each with a capacity ranging between 1,500 and 3,000 worshippers, are expected to open in Hulhumalé within the next six months.

He also noted that next year marks the 900th anniversary of the Maldives’ conversion to Islam. In commemoration of the milestone, the Government is working to begin construction of the largest mosque in Hulhumalé, which is planned to coincide with the historic occasion.

Minister Dr Shaheem said the scale of mosque and Islamic centre development undertaken over the past two years is unprecedented. He added that once the projects are completed, they will significantly enhance Islamic services and facilities across the country.