In a heartfelt address marking National Patriotism Day, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu called upon citizens to embody the noble principles of Islam and honor the enduring qualities of the Maldivian people. He emphasized that such commitments would lead to spiritual and psychological purity, fostering a civilized, skilled, and industrious society.
Highlighting the need to redefine Maldivian identity in contemporary times, President Muizzu advocated for a scientific approach to preserving the nation’s heritage. He expressed confidence that, with Allah’s guidance, Maldivian identity would be taught based on these principles, ensuring that the experiences and skills of the Maldivian people are safeguarded for future generations. The President also underscored the importance of integrating modern technology and economic thinking into heritage management, aiming to reform Maldivian culture through Islamic values by eliminating negative influences and embracing positive aspects.
Reflecting on the nation’s moral compass, President Muizzu noted that societies determine right from wrong based on their accepted principles or worldview. For Maldivians, he asserted, Islam serves as this standard, describing the nation’s embrace of Islam as the most beneficial revolution for Maldivian identity.
The President also highlighted the significance of National Patriotism Day coinciding with Ramadan this year, urging citizens to reflect on this fortunate alignment. He elaborated on Islam’s role in reforming Maldivian customs and culture to align with Islamic boundaries, including fostering trust in Allah, abolishing inhumane practices, defending human dignity, building mosques, establishing the five daily prayers, respecting leaders, and promoting trustworthiness. He praised the unity and compassion that flourished among Maldivians, leading to national peace and resilience against foreign threats through righteous defense of Islam.
President Muizzu traced Maldivian identity to thousands of years of collective thought, noting that historical records consistently show Maldivians inhabiting these islands. He emphasized that the Maldives, lacking a known date or period of settlement, demonstrates the antiquity, indigenous nature, and stability of the Maldivian state.
Defining national identity as the collective experiences of a growing population ensuring their continued existence, the President emphasized that Maldivian identity is the foundation of the nation’s enduring presence. He concluded his address by urging citizens to adhere to the beautiful principles of Islam and respect the steadfast qualities of Maldivians, praying for a prosperous nation filled with spiritually and psychologically pure, hardworking, skilled, and civilized individuals.
National Patriotism Day, celebrated annually on March 6, was established in 2018 to promote unity, culture, religious faith, and national spirit among Maldivians.
