Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture, and Heritage Adam Naseer Ibrahim has held discussions with Portuguese culture and history expert, Robert de Giacomo to explore insights into Maldivian culture and history archived in Portuguese records.
The discussions centered on uncovering details regarding Maldivian culture, heritage, historical documentation, and communication exchanges between the Maldives and Portugal. Robert shared his recent research focus on South Asian countries, aiming to advocate for legal protection to safeguard their rich cultural heritage.
Robert mentioned the existence of books documenting Maldives-Portuguese interactions in national archives, with Maldivian jewelry showcased at the Portugal Museum. Stressing the global challenges to heritage preservation in the face of globalisation, he emphasized the importance of overcoming obstacles to protect national identity and heritage.
Following the dialogue, Robert visited the site where the replica of Kalhu-Oh' Fummi is being constructed, accompanied by Minister Adam Naseer.
Historically, the Maldives was under Portuguese occupation from 1558 to 1573. The Maldives National Day, observed on the first day of the Islamic month of Rabi-ul-Awwal, commemorates Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al Auzam's victory over the Portuguese.