Did you know that a project intended for Masjidhul Zikra led to the construction of a new mosque elsewhere? Let’s uncover the story of Masjidhul Zikra. It involves a tale of contracts and compensation.
In 2018, SJ Construction was contracted to develop a 10-storey building at the premises of Masjidhul Zikra. The project was estimated to cost USD 8.4 million. The previous administration even paid SJ Construction USD 1.9 million as an advance.
However, the contract was terminated. The company failed to complete the project within the 25-month deadline.
In April of last year, the government sought to retrieve the USD 1.9 million. They had paid to SJ Construction for the Masjidhul Zikra project. The case went to the Civil Court of the Maldives.
During dispute resolution, an agreement emerged. Instead of repaying the money, SJ Construction would build a new mosque. This new mosque would be in Hulhumale’ Phase II as compensation.
The agreement was signed on January 23. Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr. Ahmed Zahir Ali and Director of SJ Construction Shihad Ibrahim were present. The new mosque project costs USD 2.27 million. SJ Construction would invest the excess amount beyond the initial USD 1.9 million.
The new mosque will accommodate 3,000 worshippers. The project is expected to take 1 year and 2 months.
So, while Masjidhul Zikra itself remained unchanged, its story took an unexpected turn. A failed reconstruction led to a new place of worship being built. This benefits another community in Hulhumale’. Masjidhul Zikra’s legacy is now linked to this new mosque. It stands as a testament to how projects can evolve in unforeseen ways. It shows how even setbacks can lead to positive outcomes for the community.