Minister of Islamic Affairs De Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has stated that the most effective way to prevent terrorism and religious extremism is to disseminate accurate information and raising awareness. The Minister made the statement while speaking at the launch of a special programme to combat terrorism in the Maldives with the assistance of the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC).
In his remarks, the Minister described terrorism as a dangerous ideological disease. The remedy for the disease is to spreading knowledge and raising awareness in accordance with Islamic Shariah, he said.
The Minster noted that the Maldives is undertaking significant efforts under the instruction of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu against terrorism and religious extremism. He expressed confidence that the IMCTC and the Maldives can work together to successfully combat terrorism.
"Islam is a religion of peace and harmony. Saving even one person's life is important and sacred. Saving one person's life is akin to saving all of humanity. Islam is not a religion of bloodshed and violence,” the Minister said.
Emphasising the importance of distinguishing between terrorism and jihad, the Minister said the wisdom in jihad lies in protecting a nation and its people. He further affirmed that Islam forbids violence in all forms.
“Shariah has defined strict principles for Jihad—it is not an individual responsibility but one that lies with the state and its leadership. The true purpose of Jihad is to protect the nation and its people. Islam unequivocally prohibits all forms of terrorism,” he said.
The IMCTC is an international organisation formed by the Saudi Arabian government to fight terrorism. The organisation has 42 member countries including the Maldives, and provides assistance to member countries to prevent terrorism.
The IMCTC and the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) are conducting a special programme against terrorism and extremism in the Maldives. The program is designed to train the relevant authorities.