President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has inaugurated a photo exhibition featuring items related to the November 3, 1988 attack.
Following the opening of the Victory Day exhibition, the President and First Lady toured the exhibition, where they were briefed on the stories and items on display.
Held at the National Art Gallery, the exhibition provides information on the events of the attack. This is the first such exhibition organised by the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts, in collaboration with the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). It aims to offer insight into the aggressive attack and its historical context.
The exhibition features drawings, photographs, soundscapes, and artefacts from the day, including some of the tools used. On display for the first time is the rifle carried by Shaheed Hussain Adam. Other items include weapons used by the Maldivian army in self-defence and those used by the attackers. The exhibition highlights the damage caused by the attack and showcases the bravery demonstrated by the armed forces in securing victory. With over 200 items on display, it seeks to educate the current generation on Victory Day. Unlike previous years, this exhibition includes original weapons and artefacts from that day, available for public viewing.
The exhibition is divided into nine segments, each featuring a central display and following a chronological sequence to narrate the events from the start of the attack to the declaration of victory.
The MNDF expressed that the exhibition will inspire patriotism in young visitors, allowing them to learn about the attack and the people’s struggle for victory.
The exhibition will be open daily from 0900 hrs to 1200 hrs, 1400 hrs to 1600 hrs, and 2000 hrs to 2200 hrs from 3 to 9 November.
Since 1992, the MNDF has organised photo exhibitions in commemoration of Victory Day.