President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has described Islam as the most sacred inheritance for future generations of Maldivians, as the nation commemorated the 899th anniversary of its conversion to the faith. In a statement issued via social media, he announced plans for a nationwide celebration to mark next year’s 900th anniversary, calling it the “most majestic, most historic day” the current generation will experience.
“The most precious inheritance we can bequeath to our future generations is the sacred religion of Islam, combined with the unique and noble characteristics of the Maldivian people,” President Muizzu stated. He linked the Maldives’ enduring independence and sovereignty to the unity of its people, who have remained steadfast on the path of truth since embracing Islam nearly nine centuries ago. That unity, he said, has preserved the nation’s distinct identity through the centuries.
“The acceptance of Islam by the Maldivian people 899 years ago stands as a beautiful example of choosing the righteous path together in obedience, peace, and solidarity,” the president stated.
He reiterated that the Islamic faith, interwoven with the distinct and virtuous traits of the Maldivian people, represents the most valuable legacy to be passed down. “From that day to the present, the distinct identity and independence of this nation have endured because we remain a people united on the path of truth,” the president underscored.
In closing, President Muizzu offered a prayer that Maldivians across generations would be blessed with the strength to protect and uphold this heritage. “As I pray that Maldivians in every era are blessed with the noble fortune of protecting and sustaining this invaluable heritage, I extend my heartfelt greetings on the anniversary of the Maldives’ conversion to Islam,” he added.
Historical accounts attribute the Maldives’ conversion to Islam to Abu al-Barakat Yusuf al-Barbari, a scholar from the Maghreb, a region encompassing present-day Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Mauritania. The event is recorded to have occurred on the 2nd of Rabi’ al-Akhir in the year 548 AH, corresponding to 1153 AD in the Gregorian calendar.
Looking ahead, the government has announced plans to organise commemorative activities across the country in honour of the 900th anniversary. These events are intended to revive the national and Islamic spirit and reinforce communal unity.
The day marking the Maldives’ conversion to Islam was first officially observed in 1374 AD, during the reign of Sultan Muhammad Fareed al-Awwal and under the premiership of Sumuvvul Ameer Ibrahim Faamuladheyri Kilegefaanu.