Fenaka Corporation has hosted a children’s evening in HA. Utheemu as part of this year’s National Day celebrations, bringing together young residents for games and activities centred around the historical significance of the occasion.
The event was held as Utheemu took centre stage in the country’s official National Day commemorations, with the island hosting a series of activities linked to the legacy of national hero Al-Sultan Al-Ghaazee Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al-Auzam.
According to Fenaka, a large number of children participated in the evening, which featured a range of games and recreational activities designed to create a festive atmosphere while introducing younger generations to the importance of National Day.
One of the main attractions was a miniature replica of Kalhuohfummi, the vessel famously associated with Muhammad Thakurufaanu and his campaign to liberate the Maldives from Portuguese rule.
The mini Kalhuohfummi was designed and built by Fenaka employees specifically for children attending the event. Fenaka said the creation attracted considerable interest from both children and other members of the Utheemu community.
The company said residents of the island also provided strong support and cooperation in organising the evening.
Beyond providing entertainment, Fenaka said the event was intended to help children understand the history behind National Day and encourage a sense of patriotism from a young age.
The company also described the gathering as an opportunity to strengthen community ties by bringing families and children together during the national celebrations.
Utheemu holds a special place in Maldivian history as the home island of Muhammad Thakurufaanu, who led the resistance that eventually brought an end to Portuguese rule in the Maldives.
Kalhuohfummi is closely tied to that history. The vessel was used by Muhammad Thakurufaanu and his companions during their campaign against the Portuguese, making it one of the most recognisable symbols associated with the country’s liberation.
National Day is observed annually on the first day of Rabee-ul-Awwal to commemorate Muhammad Thakurufaanu’s victory and the restoration of Maldivian independence.
This year’s main official National Day activities were held in Utheemu, with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed travelling to the island for the official ceremony.
The programme also included the presentation of national awards and the inauguration of the newly developed Boduthakurufaanu Memorial Gateway and an interactive story vault documenting the national struggle led by Muhammad Thakurufaanu.
Fenaka said its employees were also involved in preparations for the wider celebrations, working to decorate and prepare different areas of Utheemu ahead of the official National Day programme.
