The Maldives Zakat House is seeking an insurance provider to provide insurance services for those undergoing treatment of serious illnesses from among those listed on the Zakat register, for treatments and services not covered under the Aasandha insurance scheme.
An announcement published in the Government Gazette said the Zakat House is inviting bids from Islamic health insurance providers to provide health insurance services to those listed on the Zakat register. Bids are open to those who are licensed to provide insurance services under the Business Registration Act.
According to the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, the deadline to register for the bid is by 10:00 am on Thursday, 17 July, while bidding will be opened at 10:00 am on Thursday, 24 July. Information regarding the bidding process can be obtained by emailing the Ministry.
The Ministry of Islamic Affairs said insurance is being introduced for individuals on the Zakat list to enable them to spend on medical services not covered by Aasandha, including life-saving treatment abroad, as well as facilitate procurement of medicines from abroad.
Established on 18 December 2023, the Zakat House is tasked with the collection and distribution of zakat, including Zakat Al-Mal and Zakat Al-Fitr. The institution aims to alleviate poverty by providing financial support to those in need, such as debt relief and medical assistance. Additionally, the Zakat House raises public awareness about the importance of zakat and invests in Shariah-approved areas to maximise community benefits.
There are 2,852 individuals currently listed in the Zakat Fund register.