In a move aimed at enhancing the utility of Islamic centres across the Maldives, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs has announced plans to establish libraries at these centres throughout the country starting this year.
Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, made the announcement at a signing ceremony held to award the contract for the construction of an Islamic Centre in Milandhoo, Shaviyani Atoll, to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). The agreement was signed by Minister Shaheem on behalf of the Ministry, with MTCC represented by its Managing Director, Ahmed Saudhy.
The Islamic Ministry’s initiative aims to expand the role of Islamic centres by not only providing space for worship but also offering valuable educational resources to communities across the nation. Minister Shaheem noted that while Islamic centres have been established on many islands, their full potential has yet to be realized. He emphasized the government’s efforts to maximize the benefits these centres offer by expanding their scope to include educational opportunities, such as courses provided by the Islamic University of Maldives at centres in Thinadhoo, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, and Ungoofaaru, Raa Atoll.
As part of this initiative, the Ministry is working to establish libraries at all existing Islamic centres in the country. “The first library is being set up at the Salman Centre, with plans to open it next month,” said Minister Shaheem. “Following that, we will be launching libraries in Thinadhoo and Ungoofaaru.”
The construction of new Islamic centres is also underway, including projects in Addu City and Dhidhdhoo, Haa Alifu Atoll. The Minister confirmed that these centres are expected to be completed within the year, further expanding the country’s network of Islamic educational and community facilities.
MTCC’s Managing Director, Ahmed Saudhy, reassured the public that his company would meet the project’s deadlines despite handling nearly 400 other ongoing projects. He emphasized that the Islamic Centre projects would be given priority, and the company would scale its resources accordingly to ensure their timely completion.
With the establishment of these libraries, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs hopes to foster an environment of learning and development within the Islamic centres, contributing to both spiritual and educational growth across the islands.
