President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on Thursday announced a sweeping national initiative to protect, modernise, and pass on the Dhivehi language and Maldivian heritage, reaffirming culture and literature as pillars of national sovereignty and long-term development.
Speaking at the award ceremony for Dhivehi linguistic competitions organised by the Ministry of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage, President Muizzu congratulated students and participants who received accolades, while extending appreciation to parents, teachers, and mentors whose support made the achievements possible. He also wished continued success to all competitors whose results were announced during the ceremony.
The President underscored that literature, writing, and public speaking are essential skills for nation-building, noting that these abilities are rooted in culture and heritage. He stressed that national progress depends on nurturing cultural identity while cultivating generations of ethical, creative, and morally grounded citizens, which he said is vital for peace, development, and security.
Highlighting structural reforms, President Muizzu said the government has launched a transformative agenda for the Dhivehi heritage sector. This includes the establishment of a dedicated ministry for Dhivehi language, culture, and heritage services, the creation of a national centre for heritage research, and the rollout of the “Dhivehi Qaumiyyathuge Isvaru” National Identity Initiative. Institutions such as the Dhivehi Language Academy and the National Museum have also been consolidated under the ministry to streamline services and strengthen institutional impact.
President Muizzu emphasised that the Dhivehi language defines Maldivian identity and warned that safeguarding it requires deliberate action, particularly for younger generations. Acknowledging concerns raised by writers over the high cost of printing books, he described access to Dhivehi literature as a national issue. He announced that the government will introduce special arrangements to support authors with book printing, expanding access to Dhivehi reading materials for children and youth.
Addressing modern learning needs, the President said traditional classroom methods alone are insufficient. He noted growing public concern over the lack of Dhivehi-language cartoons, educational videos, and games, especially for Maldivian families abroad and working parents seeking productive screen-time options. To address this gap, President Muizzu announced that from next year, a national competition with substantial prizes will be launched to produce short films for children focusing on language, culture, history, and heritage.
The President also elevated the status of the Dhivehi Thaana Calligraphy Competition, which for the first time received a Presidential Award this year. He announced that starting next year, the competition will be recognised and conducted as a national-level event. Describing Thaana as a symbol of cultural sovereignty, he said having a unique script places the Maldivian nation among the world’s culturally distinct societies.
Concluding his address, President Muizzu called on students to use their literary and oratory talents responsibly and in service of the nation. He urged them to uphold truth, reject corruption, contribute creative ideas, respect linguistic standards, and remain mindful of national security, social values, and international relations. He encouraged young Maldivians to write and speak with integrity, faith, and unwavering love for their homeland.
