Hafiz allowance doubled to MVR 4,000

The government has doubled the monthly allowance for Hafiz from MVR 2,000 to MVR 4,000.

The new allowance came into effect last month and was paid out yesterday, Islamic Ministry said.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu had first announced the decision to increase the allowance during the National Quran Competition result announcement and Hafiz graduation ceremony held on 16 July last year.

Speaking at the event, the president stressed the importance of nurturing Hafiz and fostering love for the Quran.

According to the ministry, the increase is part of the government’s efforts to promote Quran memorization and recognize the contributions of Hafiz in the community.

The rise in allowance will now cost the state over MVR 1 million each month.

As of April, there were 266 registered Hafiz in the Maldives, including 126 women and 140 men, according to data shared by the Quran Centre.

President Muizzu said that it is important to invest in Hafiz training and elevating the status of Hafiz to strengthen love for Qur'an.