Ministry of Islamic Affairs has revealed 15,947 people have contributed to Zakat-al-Fitr so far this year.
Unlike previous years, the Zakat-al-Fitr is collected through online platforms only this year. Islamic ministry said USD 44,538 has been received as Zakat-al-Fitr so far this year.
The ministry began collecting Zakat-al-Fitr on the first day of Ramadan. Due to the restrictions imposed in the Greater Male' Region following the COVID-19 pandemic, Zakat payments will be collected via Dhiraagu Pay and Lifestyle application, mFaisaa application, and Ooredoo SMS service. In addition, it can be paid through the Bank of Maldives (BML) website, Faisaanet of Maldives Islamic Bank (MIB), and mobile banking platform Faisaa Mobile.
For residents in Male', the rates of Zakat range from USD 0.97 to USD 6.80. In other areas, the Zakat rate would be the same rate at which rice is sold in the respective area.
Every adult Muslim who possesses food in excess of their needs must pay Zakat al Fitr before the Eid al Fitr prayer at the end of Ramadan. The minimum amount due is the equivalent of about 2 kilograms of wheat flour, rice, or other staple food, per member of the household, including dependents, even if they do not live in the same house.
Recipients of Zakat al Fitr are the poor and those in need. Islamic Ministry stated 8,764 individuals have registered on the list to receive Zakat.