The Ministry of Islamic Affairs and relevant authorities will jointly take measures to prevent mockery, hate speech and abuse of Islam that have recently surfaced through social media platforms.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Ministry stressed that many social media users have been mocking Islam on platforms and via magazines, going on to spread misinformation regarding the religion.

Highlighting that the Maldives follows Islam and is a Muslim nation, the statement adds that spreading hate speech regarding Islam is detrimental to the Muslim community, adding that the nation may fall apart if these issues continue to arise.

Further, the Ministry warned that strict action will be taken against those giving open threats in social media, and acting out of the Islamic ways.

Those who are seeking to clear doubts about Islam may contact the ministry and the ministry urges all to refrain from acting or speaking in ways that will create disorder within the Muslim community.

The statement also reads that the Ministry will not hesitate to take measures against those spreading hate speech, and will be working with relevant authorities to maintain the Islamic principles within the people.