The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has announced that tomorrow (18th January) will be the first day of Ramadan 1447 AH, following confirmation of the crescent moon sighting.
The declaration was made during a moon observation gathering held tonight at the Islamic Centre in Malé. An official statement signed by Minister of Islamic Affairs, Dr. Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, confirmed that after sunset on Tuesday, the 29th of Sha’ban 1447 AH, credible sightings of the new moon were reported by several Islamic nations.
In accordance with the Maldives’ established procedures for determining the start of Ramadan and Shawwal, authorities decreed that fasting will begin tomorrow.
Saudi Arabia has also confirmed the moon sighting and declared the start of the holy month.
Fasting during Ramadan is one of the five pillars of Islam and a central religious obligation for Muslims.
