Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage Heena Waleed has said the government is working to restore the Maldivian national identity to its “rightful place”.
She made the statement while addressing a ceremony held to mark the 900th anniversary of the Maldives embracing Islam.
In her address, the Minister said the conversion to Islam 900 years ago under the rule of King Dharumavantha was the most significant turning point in Maldivian history and led to significant changes in society, culture and language. Describing how Islamic culture became an important foundation of the Maldivian identity, she said the Maldives’ conversion to Islam introduced a new way of life for the Maldives.
The minister said archaeological and historical research has helped reveal more about the country’s ancient past, but that further research is needed to preserve the Maldivian identity. She said the government is developing researchers capable of conducting such studies and implementing policies and projects aimed at reviving the national identity.
Minister Heena further said Islam has been the key reason the Maldives has remained an independent country with strong policies, and that Maldivian heroes fought and sacrificed to protect Islam and the country. She called on people to uphold Islam and remain aware of both security opportunities and risks in today’s interconnected world.
900th Anniversary celebrations
At the ceremony, the logo and slogan to mark the 900th anniversary of the Maldives embracing Islam was launched by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. The logo will be used throughout the anniversary year.
Around 15 activities will be held throughout the year, including events for different age groups and activities at the national level. A permanent monument will be built in the Male’ area to commemorate the historic occasion. Other planned events include an international Islamic trade fair, a national Quran recitation festival, an Islamic and science quiz, a sporting event under the name Islamic Solidarity Games, an Islamic calligraphy festival, an Islamic film festival, and a youth camp. Furthermore, an Islamic history museum gallery will also be developed. Other activities include religious seminars, a competition featuring Maldivian Islamic architectural designs, and a publication on the architecture of stone mosques in the Maldives.