Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has stated that the Zakat system is being changed to increase the amount given to the poor.

The Minister said this while speaking at the opening of the second International Zakat Symposium organized by the Maldives Zakat House today.

Dr. Shaheem said that work is being done to change the Zakat system to also meet essential needs.

Based on the scholarly opinions and guidance received from the first symposium held last year, the Zakat system is being restructured. He added that this symposium will also provide important consultations and information to strengthen and develop the system.

Highlighting the importance of the symposium, Shaheem said that the Maldives' Zakat law was also formulated based on the consultations from the first Zakat symposium.

He said that the Zakat bill currently submitted to the People's Majlis is based on the latest information and experiences gathered so far.

Shaheem said that the Maldives' Zakat law will include some aspects not found in Zakat laws of other countries.

Revealing that they are considering providing more assistance to the poor and needy as part of strengthening the Zakat system, the Minister said that they are working on developing a vision to provide assistance for for the essential needs of the poor in their lives.

He added that this would be sufficient to build a good society.