President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that protecting the pillars of our national identity is a national duty; one that he will carry out with joy and without a moment's weariness.
The President made these remarks this morning whilst delivering the Presidential Address at the first sitting of the first session of the 20th People's Majlis for the year.
Speaking about the Government's work in national identity and heritage, the President emphasised that such importance is placed on these efforts because the Dhivehi language, Maldivian culture, and Maldivian heritage are the strongest testament to our cultural independence; the most enduring proof that these islands and waters belong to the Maldivian people.
Highlighting key initiatives already underway, the President announced that practical work has begun on developing Level 3 National Occupational Competency Standard training packages for several endangered crafts. These include traditional mat weaving, blacksmithing and carpentry, as well as lacquer work, kasabu gethun (lace-braiding), feyli viyun (sarong weaving), and the crafting of items from coconut palm materials including fronds, spathe, and thatch. He further stated that training centres will be established this year: a lacquer work centre in B. Thulhaadhoo, a handicrafts centre in Dh. Rinbudhoo, and a mat weaving centre in GDh. Gadhdhoo.
The President announced that the Interactive Immersive Museum being constructed at Usgekolhu will be completed and opened to the public within the year. Additionally, a nomination dossier has been submitted for the inscription of Maldivian coral stone mosques and traditional stone masonry on the UNESCO World Heritage List, aimed at garnering international recognition for the nation's ancient civilisation. The Presidential Address also highlighted ongoing research efforts to establish a scholarly community for heritage, alongside national heritage projects being implemented in H.A. Utheemu, Thakandhoo, and Baarah.
The President stated that a national vision for reviving and developing the Maldivian way of life will be developed this year, with the launch of a national project on respect and a nationwide campaign to instil this value throughout the Maldives. He also announced that "Bingaa,” a special educational programme targeting school students and the first of its kind in Maldivian history, has now commenced.
Furthermore, to establish the necessary legal framework for these initiatives, the President stated that bills on Maldivian national symbols and on the college of Maldivian heritage will be submitted to the People's Majlis during this year's second session.