Ministry of Islamic Affairs has announced a new policy for distributing Fitr Zakat, ensuring that all registered poor individuals receive an equal amount of MVR 4,500. This reflects a significant change from previous years, where Zakat funds were allocated within each island, leading to variations in the amount received.
Islamic Minister Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed highlighted that this is the first time such a system has been implemented in the Maldives. In the past, recipients in islands with fewer poor individuals received higher amounts, ranging from MVR 8,000 to MVR 12,000. However, under the new system, the entire country is treated as a single unit, and the funds are divided equally among all those on the official register.
The minister emphasised that the change aims to promote social justice, which is a core principle of Zakat. So far, MVR 12.4 million has been collected, ensuring fair distribution among those in need.
Last year, individuals in urban areas received MVR 8,000 per person as Fitr Zakat, whereas this year’s equal distribution ensures fairness for all recipients across the nation.
