IMCTC program aimed at building capacity of imams and preachers launched in Male’

‘Building the capacity of Imams and Preachers’, a training program organized by the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) was launched in Male’ on Monday.

The training program held under IMCTC’s strategic initiative ‘Wasata’ will bring together a select group of imams, preachers, and orators from across the Maldives.

Monday’s launching ceremony was graced by Islamic Minister Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, Sports Minister Abdulla Rafiu and IMCTC’s Secretary General, Major General Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Moghedi.

The five-day program features a series of lectures and workshops covering the propaganda techniques employed by extremist groups, the essentials of effective public speaking and communication, as well as the principles of moderation and balance. It also serves as a platform for participants to exchange successful preaching experiences.

The initiative is part of IMCTC’s ongoing collaboration with member states to combat terrorism through a comprehensive strategy that addresses both ideological and security aspects. These efforts include awareness campaigns on countering terrorism financing and money laundering, and equipping preachers with modern tools and methodologies to challenge extremist ideologies.

Speaking during ceremony, Minister Shaheem described the training program, organized by IMCTC in collaboration with the National Counter Terrorism Centre of the Republic of Maldives (NCTC), as a crucial initiative aimed at delivering accurate information on terrorism and extremism.

He emphasized that terrorism is an ideological disease with no religion, and that the cure lies in offering correct knowledge and information based on the principles of Islam.

The Minister expressed his gratitude to Saudi Arabia for its efforts in safeguarding the Islamic Ummah from terrorism, extremism, and ideological manipulation. He highlighted the Kingdom’s extensive experience and expertise in counter-terrorism, noting that countries like the Maldives stand to benefit significantly from this knowledge.

“I strongly believe that Saudi Arabia and the Maldives, working together, are well-positioned to achieve significant accomplishments in this field,” he added.

IMCTC’s Secretary General Al-Moghedi said the training program reflects the understanding among planners that countering terrorism is not solely limited to military means. 

“It encompasses various dimensions, including countering extremist ideologies with sound thought and compelling argument—especially since distorted and misleading ideas often pave the way toward radicalization and violent behavior,” he said, adding enhancing cooperation among countries and relevant institutions, intensifying efforts to develop mechanisms for monitoring and tracking terrorist group tactics, exchanging information, and strengthening capabilities, all contribute to fostering a safer and more stable environment.

IMCTC aims to conduct 90 training programs and 20 awareness and knowledge-based initiatives across its member states, all designed to strengthen capabilities in the fight against terrorism.

Established in 2015, IMCTC is an intergovernmental counter-terrorist military alliance between 42 Islamic member states, united around the war against the Islamic State and other counter-terrorist activities.