Ministry of Islamic Affairs silent regarding Halloween celebrations in Maafushi

Ministry of Islamic Affairs has remained silent regarding the celebration of "Halloween"a Christian holiday event in K. Maafushi, one of the most prominent hubs for local tourism in the Maldives.

In relation to this matter, repeated phone calls from "Voice" to obtain a statement from the Islamic Ministry went unanswered.

Furthermore, the ministry did not respond to any text messages sent to them.

Additionally, repeated inquiries to the Maldives Police Service have also yielded no response so far.

This issue surfaced after "Kaani Hotels & Tours" in Maafushi announced that they would host a Halloween party at their "Kaani Palm Beach" property on October 31st.

They publicly announced this event across their social media platforms on the 24th of last month. According to the announcement, the party would feature a buffet and a DJ, and guests were encouraged to attend in special costumes.

Following such a public announcement, the party and DJ event were held last Saturday night, with videos of the event being shared publicly on social media from Kaani Hotels' own accounts.

Social media posts reviewed by Voice show that they have organised similar Halloween activities in Maafushi in previous years.

Amid growing public criticism over the matter, "Voice" contacted Ali Shammoon, President of the Maafushi Council, to clarify whether this had come to the council's attention.

He stated that it had been brought to their attention.

However, when asked when they became aware of it and what actions were taken in response, he hung up without providing any answer.

After subsequent attempts to reach him failed, "Voice" contacted Vice President of the Council, Hussain Aamil, who stated that he was unaware such a party had taken place.

Article 9 of the "Regulation on Protecting Religious Unity among Maldivians," formulated under Law No. 94/6 (Protection of Religious Unity among Maldivians Act), clearly states that "it is prohibited for non-Muslims residing in or visiting the Maldives to publicly express their religious symbols, conduct such religious activities in groups in public places, or for any Maldivian to participate in any such activities."

Celebrating symbols and festivals of other religions, such as Christmas and Halloween, is strictly prohibited under the sacred religion of Islam, the Constitution of the Maldives, and its laws.

However, as such activities have recently been taking place publicly in inhabited islands without any action being taken, many members of the public are expressing concern, noting that this poses a severe threat to the faith of the younger generation and tears the social and religious fabric of Maldivian society.