In a historic move, First Lady Sajidha Mohamed unveiled the “Happy Maldives” logo, marking the nation’s first endeavor to assess its citizens’ well-being through the Maldives Happiness Index. During the launch ceremony, she emphasized the integral role of language, culture, heritage, and arts in nurturing a nation’s happiness.
“Initiating this project is a significant milestone for our country,” the First Lady stated, expressing her delight at the project’s commencement. She noted that such initiatives are characteristic of governments that uphold democratic values.
Discussing the multifaceted nature of happiness, First Lady Sajidha observed that its definition varies across academic and linguistic contexts. She highlighted the importance of cultural expressions—such as jokes, proverbs, and stories passed down through generations—in fostering national joy. “The joy derived from literary creations in one’s mother tongue is widely recognized by countries around the world,” she remarked.
The First Lady identified key contributors to human happiness, including financial stability, psychological comfort, spiritual richness, physical health, social sufficiency, and the contentment derived from heritage and culture. She emphasized that, in line with Islamic teachings, true peace and happiness stem from remembering Allah and accepting both good and bad destiny. “The true fortress of happiness is a heart illuminated by the light of faith,” she affirmed.
As the Maldives embarks on developing its Happiness Index, the Islamic University of Maldives (IUM) will lead the research. The study will encompass various aspects of happiness, engaging all segments of society to ensure a comprehensive understanding of national well-being.
This initiative aligns with global trends, where nations are increasingly adopting well-being measures to supplement traditional economic indicators. By embracing such a holistic approach, the Maldives aims to create a more inclusive and fulfilling society for its citizens.
