Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that previously approximately MVR 14 million was received as Zakat. However, the number has now been increased to nearly MVR 100 million as a result of raising awareness on Zakat.
Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that previously approximately MVR 14 million was received as Zakat. However, the number has now been increased to nearly MVR 100 million as a result of raising awareness on the importance of Zakat, he said.
Speaking at the inauguration of the International Zakat Symposium, the Minister said that the zakat system has always been managed in a responsible manner. He said that over time, the system has benefited from many advances.
As such, he noted that significant advances were brought to the system during the tenure of Dr Abdul Majeed Abdul Bari as Islamic Minister in 2008. At the time, the recipients were categorized under research based on modern standards, and decisions were made to spend through zakat on new ventures.
This includes spending on stationery and books for orphans and for higher education for less privileged children.
The Minister said that the opportunities granted then to pursue higher studies in islamic economy and other areas necessary for islamic communities has contributed towards empowering islamic financial institutes today.
"Many other changes were also brought then to zakat. Raising awareness and translating books and meeting with companies and working on getting zakat," he said.
The Minister believes that the funds being paid as Zakat is increasing due to the change in mindset amongst people. He said that as people continue becoming more aware of the zakat system, if it can be strengthened through the law, then further advancement can be seen.
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