Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture, and Heritage Adam Naseer Ibrahim has reaffirmed the central role of the Dhivehi language in preserving Maldivian national identity, asserting that linguistic unity is fundamental to the nation's cohesion and survival.
Speaking at the official ceremony commemorating Dhivehi Language Day, Minister Adam Naseer underscored the connection between language and cultural continuity, reiterating that a shared linguistic heritage not only facilitates communication but also strengthens national consciousness. This sense of collective identity, he maintained, is instrumental in shaping the aspirations and unity of the people.
"A common vernacular is more than a practical tool for dialogue; it is the thread that binds a people to their origins, enabling them to reflect on their shared history and shape their collective future," Minister Adam Naseer stated. He pointed to historical independence movements, noting that mother-tongue revival has often been a decisive factor in nations' struggles for self-determination.
To reinforce the Dhivehi language's role in national cohesion, the Minister called for a comprehensive strategy, beginning at home. He urged families to prioritise Dhivehi in daily conversations and encouraged workplaces to embed the language more prominently in professional settings. He also advocated systemic reforms in education, highlighting the need to integrate Dhivehi into curricula and ensure its presence in cultural and community-wide observances.
Beyond linguistic preservation, Minister Adam Naseer framed the mother tongue as a vital force in fostering interpersonal bonds, deepening mutual empathy, and securing national consensus on pressing issues. He concluded by reaffirming that aspirations for unity, stronger relationships, and heightened social cohesion among Maldivians are intrinsically tied to their shared linguistic heritage.