Recipient of the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin (ODRI), Abbas Ibrahim, has said that those who stand firm for what is right are carrying out the same work as martyrs. He made the remarks while speaking at a panel discussion held to mark the 1447th Martyrs’ Day.
Speaking at the event, Abbas Ibrahim said the word martyr deeply touches the heart due to the meaning conveyed in Qur’anic verses, the stories narrated about martyrs, and the aspiration among believers to attain martyrdom.
He said that, in Islam, martyrs are regarded as individuals who strive for the sake of faith and religion. According to Abbas Ibrahim, such individuals resist injustice and demonstrate their sacrifice through courage and determination.
He further stated that not all martyrs are necessarily mortal, adding that a person’s lifelong efforts in striving for martyrdom equate to the deeds of martyrs.
Abbas Ibrahim also noted that some individuals have recently questioned the sacrifices made by national heroes who fought for the country, describing such actions as a threat to the nation.
The panel discussion was also attended by Kashima Ahmed Shakir, Colonel Hussain Ali, and Sheikh Ahmed Fahmee didi.
Martyrs’ Day is commemorated on the anniversary of the martyrdom of King Ali, who was killed while fighting for the liberation of Maldives from Portuguese rule. The day also serves to honour Islam and the national heroes who fought for the freedom of the people.
Martyrs’ Day was first observed in Maldives on 1 Sha’ban 1400 AH, corresponding to 14 June 1980.