Annual conference of faith-based civic groups begins

The annual conference of faith-based civic groups commenced on Sunday at the Islamic Center in Male’ City.

According to the Islamic Ministry, the conference is being held in three sessions.

98 representatives from 70 local groups are participating in this conference, some of them virtually.

At the inauguration of the conference on Sunday morning, Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed said he was happy to meet representatives of religious groups in one place.

He also expressed concern over modern ideological and social challenges facing the Maldivian community as it nears 900 years since it embraced Islam.

He described the current challenges as “the biggest challenges yet.”

Shaheem highlighted on the crucial role played by civic groups in efforts to protect Maldives’ Islamic faith and religious unity in face of the challenges.

This is not a task that the government alone can undertake, he said.

“This requires strong and collaborative efforts from Islamic and civic groups, religious scholars, the Islamic Ministry, and other relevant institutions,” he said.

Shaheem reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting and upholding Islamic principles, adding that supporting efforts to protect and promote Islamic values is a top priority for President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

Shaheem said that Sunday’s conference is an opportunity to discuss ways the government can support religious groups.