The digitisation of cultural and historical artefacts for a global audience has emerged as a critical national priority, Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage Heena Waleed said, as the government moves to protect the nation’s artistic legacy. While detailing initiatives to safeguard this heritage, the government proposed five historic mosques for inclusion on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the minister announced.
The preservation of these culturally significant sites currently necessitates substantial financial investment to secure personnel and operational resources, she noted, adding that UNESCO recognition would facilitate access to international funding and technical assistance. Such status for these traditional coral stone mosques would ease the maintenance burden while bringing "immense pride to the nation," Minister Heena explained.
"These are mosques constructed using traditional Maldivian stone masonry," Minister Heena said. "They possess distinct elements that illustrate the dawn of Islamic civilisation within our country." International recognition, she added, offers "the world a window into Maldivian culture and the remarkable craftsmanship of our ancestors."
Beyond physical preservation, comprehensive efforts are underway to disseminate Maldivian history on a larger scale. Digitisation, Minister Heena argued, is essential for showcasing assets globally and revitalising cultural wealth. Targeted interventions to sustain fading traditions could rescue endangered crafts while generating sustainable revenue for local practitioners. The government has initiated programmes to revive these customs, including nationwide efforts to archive the oral histories of elderly citizens to ensure their knowledge is preserved for future generations.