President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated culture and heritage are essential components in building a progressive economy and a bright future for the country.
In a tweet posted on the occasion of World Heritage Day, President Solih said the Maldives has been blessed with a rich culture and heritage that must be protected and maintained in order to build a sustainable future. He noted culture and heritage are essential components in achieving economic progress.
As part of efforts to preserve Maldivian culture and heritage, the administration has started forming a list of all heritage sites across the Maldives. More than 400 sites have been included in the list.
Furthermore, a Heritage Act was introduced in 2019 to ensure the documentation, preservation and protection of cultural heritage. This Act ascertains the procedures and jurisdictions of the state and individuals, as well as stipulate that acts resulting in the loss of items or sites of historical significance as criminal acts. The purpose of the Heritage Act is to safeguard the perpetuation of items and sites of historical significance to future generations.