Much has to be sacrificed to preserve Islamic unity- Minister of Islamic Affairs

Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that much has to be sacrificed to preserve and strengthen the Islamic unity of the Maldives.

Minister Shaheem made this remark at the official function held yesterday evening, to determine and declare the time-honoured sighting of the moon, which marks the beginning of the fasting month.

Sheikh Shaheem underscored the importance of unity and brotherhood to restore and maintain peace and national harmony. He noted that the Maldivian nation is not a nation that will remain silent in the face of injustice.

“Even if it be that a storm divides the ranks of the people, this nation will stand up and unite. This is witnessed in our proud history from the time of Mohamed Thakurufaanu and onwards. And Allah willing, the Islamic signposts of this nation cannot be destroyed. The people of Maldives are much courageous than that,” he said.

 The Minister said that the month of Ramadan is a golden opportunity to strive to strengthen the ranks of brotherhood. “Helping others, reciting Quran, helping the poor and the needy, giving charity, sheltering the orphans in Ramadan are all acts of worship. In addition to this, speaking nothing but good during the month of Ramadan is also an act of worship,” he said.

“Ramadan is the month of Allah as is mentioned in one of the noble hadeeth of the Prophet, on him be peace and blessings of Allah. Therefore, we should never spend the days and nights of Ramadan except in righteousness. Shouting and screaming at the streets and disturbing the worshippers should never be done,” he urged.