Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has announced that the Ministry will begin establishing libraries in Islamic centres in different parts of the country this year. The Minister made the statement at a signing ceremony held to handover the construction of an Islamic Centre in Milandhoo, Shaviyani Atoll, to Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC).
The contract was signed on behalf of the Islamic Ministry by Minister Shaheem, while MTCC was represented by its Managing Director Ahmed Saudhy. MTCC was awarded the contract under a design-and-build policy.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Shaheem said despite Islamic centres being established in islands, the centres have not been utilised to its fullest extent. Under efforts to maximise the benefits of the centre, the current government has started offering courses from the the Islamic University of Maldives at the Islamic centres established in Thinadhoo, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, and Ungoofaaru, Raa Atoll, he noted. Plans are also in place to begin work this year on establishing libraries in all Islamic centres currently established across the Maldives, he added.
"The first library is being set up at the Salman Centre. We are working to open it next month. Following that, libraries will be set up in Thinadhoo and Ungoofaaru,” the Minister said.
The Minister also highlighted the Islamic centre projects that are currently underway, including centres in Addu City and Dhidhdhoo, Haa Alifu Atoll. He said the two centres are expected to reach completion within the year.
Regarding the Milandhoo Islamic Centre, the Minister said the construction of the centre is being carried out in response to the requests of the island’s residents, and in line with President Muizzu’s pledges. He expressed hope that the project would be completed at the earliest.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, MTCC Managing Director Ahmed Saudhy said the company will work to complete the work within the contractual deadline.
"MTCC is currently handling about 400 projects. However, we will ensure that this project receives the attention it deserves by increasing the company's capacity to effectively carry out the project,” he stated.