Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives, Kong Xianhua, posted a heartfelt message on X today following President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s declaration of August 30 as National Engineers’ Day. The date marks the anniversary of the Sinamalé (China–Maldives Friendship) Bridge’s opening in 2018—an event Ambassador Kong described as a “daily reminder” of engineering’s power to transform society.
In his post, Ambassador Kong wrote:
Every day, I pass by CMFB twice.
This engineering marvel of Chinese and Maldivian engineers transformed Maldivians’ life and economy dramatically. So, engineers build not just projects, but also people’s lives and society’s progress. They deserve our most heartfelt respect. https://t.co/cpZo96Pxny— Ambassador Kong Xianhua (@China_Amb_Mdv) June 16, 2025
President Muizzu’s announcement was issued via an official directive from the President’s Office on June 15, 2025. The decree appoints August 30 as the date to annually celebrate engineers nationwide. This date commemorates the inauguration of the 1.4‑kilometre Sinamalé Bridge—the largest infrastructure project in Maldives history—first unveiled on August 30, 2018 .
The press release emphasized that the Ministry of Construction, Housing and Infrastructure will coordinate events and initiatives across the country. It praised the bridge as a symbol of engineers’ ingenuity and essential contributions to national development .
Ambassador Kong’s tribute reinforces this celebration. By highlighting his own routine crossing of the bridge—twice daily—he lent a personal dimension to the observance. His words honor both the partnership between Chinese and Maldivian engineers and the daily impact on citizens’ lives and the national economy.
Maldivians rely on the Sinamalé Bridge for seamless travel between Malé, Hulhulé, and Hulhumalé—including Velana International Airport. Before its existence, ferry schedules often disrupted daily routines. Now, journeys that once took up to an half and hour take just minutes . The bridge boosts tourism, commerce, and overall connectivity.
The Sinamalé Bridge has even withstood seven years of marine wear. Its condition has been described as exceptionally sound, thanks in part to free maintenance provided by China through 2028 .
By tweeting on this occasion, Ambassador Kong fused personal gratitude, diplomatic symbolism, and national recognition. His post ties the physical structure to a nationwide initiative honoring engineers, reinforcing the narrative: infrastructure connects more than land— it connects lives, nations, and futures.
As President Muizzu’s proclamation takes effect, August 30 will serve as a dual celebration: the anniversary of a landmark bridge and a new chapter in the Maldives’ recognition of engineering excellence. Ambassador Kong’s tribute ensures that the day resonates not just as a national event but as a living testament to shared progress.
