President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has encouraged all Maldivian citizens to prioritise their adherence to the Islamic creed and to embody the teachings of Islam. He made the remarks while addressing the nation on the occasion of the Islamic New Year 1444. The Islamic or Hijri New Year refers to the historic journey of Hijra from Mecca to Medina by the prophet.
In his address, President Solih extended his warmest greetings and best wishes to the Maldivian people as well as all Islamic nations and their people on the occasion of the Islamic New Year 1444. The president commemorated the beginning of the Islamic New Year by praising the prophet and the virtuous impact he had on humanity through his teachings of love, compassion, and guidance. He added that Muslims should draw morals from his journey and use these values to improve their lives whenever possible.
Furthermore, President Solih elaborated on the prophet’s journey from Mecca to Medina, and said that the Islamic community founded after the Hijra exhibited all the qualities required for a nation to develop and succeed, and attributed these qualities to the thriving Islamic empire that prevailed at the time. He remarked that the journey taught many timeless, invaluable lessons in all aspects of life, including economic and political development, and said that they continue to exemplify qualities for the development of a modern society.
Concluding his message, President Solih urged all Maldivian citizens to strengthen social bonds and work together to ensure peace and harmony in the community.