Zakat Council has held its first meeting to discuss the operationalisation of the Maldives Zakat House (MZH) under the newly ratified Zakat Act.

Chaired by Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, the meeting focused on ensuring the effective implementation of the national zakat system within the legal and Shariah framework. Dr Shaheem highlighted the importance of strengthening zakat administration to better serve communities across the Maldives.

The nine-member council includes representatives from key religious and financial institutions, including the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), the Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA), the Supreme Council for Islamic Fatwa, a Director-General, one senior Ministry official, and two independent zakat experts appointed by the President.

The Zakat Council’s primary role is to provide strategic guidance and oversight to the Maldives Zakat House, ensuring efficient management and administration of the national zakat system in line with Shariah principles and the objectives of the Zakat Act.