Adam Naseer Ibrahim, Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage, has called for a concerted effort to rejuvenate poetry among younger generations, highlighting its central role in defining the nation’s cultural fabric.
He delivered the remarks at a ceremony held at Addu High School to commemorate this year’s Poets’ Day. The guest of honour was Adam Abdul Rahman, recipient of the Order of the Dignified Rule of the Dhiyamigili Dynasty.
Minister Adam Naseer described poets as indispensable interpreters of human experience, noting that they articulate a society’s endurance, morality, and its deeper purposes. He urged the community to act with resolve to modernise and revitalise the poetic tradition, ensuring its survival for future generations.
His appeal was framed within President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s broader vision of restoring Maldivian nationalism. Minister Adam Naseer observed that the president has repeatedly underscored the importance of projects aimed at reviving national heritage and identity, citing both his inaugural national address and his presidential address at the opening session of Parliament earlier this year. He stressed that the administration is prioritising structural reforms to advance the cultural sector.
The minister went on to explain that heritage encompasses material, natural, and intangible elements. He identified poetry and language as vital components of intangible heritage, remarking that poetry remains one of the disciplines most deeply embedded in Maldivian national life.
The ceremony also recognised contemporary contributions to literature. Officials released 'Guleynooranmaa', a poetry anthology by Hassan Labeeb, a native of Hithadhoo, Addu City, to whom this year’s Poets’ Day was dedicated. In honour of his service and achievements, Labeeb was presented with a commemorative plaque.