Islamic Minister Shaheem announces Zakat Beneficiary Card to be issued from January 2026

Islamic Minister Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has announced that a Zakat Beneficiary Card will be introduced in 2026 to provide direct financial assistance to those registered on the poor list.  

Speaking on PSM News’ “Raajje Miadhu” programme on Saturday evening, Shaheem said the card will be issued in partnership with the Bank of Maldives (BML) and Zakat House.  

The card will be distributed to individuals officially listed in the poor register.  

“Therefore, the assistance he should receive, the assistance determined by the Zakat House, will be paid to him every year with the card,” Shaheem explained.  

For example, if MVR 5,000 per month is allocated to each beneficiary, they can use the card at designated shops to access the funds directly.  

Shaheem emphasized that the purpose of the card is to reduce the burden of traveling to multiple agencies and make assistance more accessible.  

He noted that the Zakat Fund is working to expand its services to cover broader needs of the poor and needy. A policy paper is being prepared to increase assistance, which will be submitted to the Cabinet for discussion.  

At the Second International Zakat Conference held in Maldives last August, Shaheem outlined a vision to use the Zakat Fund for medical treatment, education, housing, and other necessities of life. He reiterated that the fund will continue to support those registered in the poor list.  

The minister also highlighted that the Zakat Fund has already begun offering scholarships, and future plans include strengthening financial management systems, audits, and transparency to ensure effective distribution of resources.