Maldives Hosts IMCTC’s “Building the Capacity of Imams and Preachers” Program

Maldives: Today in Malé, the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) initiated its strategic training program called “Building the Capacity of Imams and Preachers” in partnership with the Republic of Maldives’ National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC). The program is a component of IMCTC’s larger “Wasata” strategy, which uses intellectual and ideological engagement to uphold moderation and counter radical ideas.

High-ranking officials that attended the launch ceremony were H.E. Maj. Gen. Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Moghedi, Secretary-General of IMCTC; H.E. Mr. Abdulla Rafiu, Minister of Sports; and H.E. Dr. Mohammed Shaheem Ali Saeed, Minister of Islamic Affairs.

To combat the ideological causes of terrorism, Dr. Shaheem emphasized the value of such projects by saying, “Terrorism is an ideological disease that must be confronted through awareness and the promotion of moderation in accordance with the principles of Islam.” He commended IMCTC’s dedication and reaffirmed the Maldives’ ongoing counterterrorism efforts under President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

Maj. Gen. Al-Moghedi restated the goal of the IMCTC, which is to coordinate and unite the activities of member states in its four domains: military, media, ideology, and counterterrorism financing. He underlined the need for information sharing and capacity building in improving overall security and readiness.

The five-day training course will feature lectures and workshops offered by experts on communication, public speaking, extreme propaganda, and moderation. Additionally, it offers a forum for interaction where preachers and imams can share experiences and best practices.

This program is a component of IMCTC’s larger aim to boost international efforts against terrorism by conducting 20 awareness campaigns and 90 training programs among member states.