President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced plans to launch a nationwide initiative aimed at reviving the values of respect, courtesy and good manners, describing the effort as a vital step in preserving the Maldives' national identity and cultural heritage.
Speaking about the planned campaign, the President said the Government has made safeguarding the country's identity one of its key priorities since taking office. He noted that Maldivian identity had weakened over the years, prompting the administration to place renewed emphasis on promoting nationalism, strengthening the Dhivehi language, studying the nation's history and revitalising its cultural heritage.
President Muizzu said restoring the traditional culture of mutual respect is central to these efforts, adding that the support of senior civil servants and government officials has been instrumental in advancing the initiative.
Reflecting on the country's past, the President said respect for neighbours, elders and one another had long been a defining feature of Maldivian society. However, he observed that these values had gradually diminished as political polarisation increased, weakening one of the nation's most important cultural characteristics.
To address this, the President announced that the Government will soon launch a major national campaign to encourage the revival of these traditional values. He said preparations and consultations are already under way and that all government institutions and civil society organisations will be invited to participate, ensuring the campaign becomes a collective national effort.
President Muizzu stressed that restoring respect is not merely a matter of social custom but an essential part of protecting the country's identity. He also noted that political leaders and parties have an important responsibility in rebuilding a culture of respect, emphasising that political differences should never come at the expense of mutual civility.
The President reaffirmed that the Government will continue to prioritise initiatives that preserve and promote Maldivian culture, strengthen the Dhivehi language and address other areas requiring greater attention to safeguard the nation's identity.
Alongside these national initiatives, President Muizzu also continued to monitor the progress of major infrastructure projects across the country.
On Thursday, he visited the Boduthakurufaanu Magu redevelopment project in the northern part of Malé City to inspect ongoing roadworks under the first phase of the project.
The President was accompanied by Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Dr Abdulla Muththalib and senior officials from the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC).
The first phase covers five sections of Boduthakurufaanu Magu, extending from the Presidential Jetty to the Henveiru Ferry Terminal. During the visit, officials briefed the President on construction progress and outlined the remaining stages of the project.
According to MTCC, asphalt paving has already been completed on the section between the Henveiru Ferry Terminal and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, while work on the remaining stretch to the Presidential Jetty is expected to begin shortly.
The redevelopment also includes reclaiming land alongside the roadway to create a new parking facility with space for approximately 500 motorcycles.
MTCC aims to complete all remaining works and reopen Boduthakurufaanu Magu to the public by 26 July. Once completed, the upgraded road is expected to improve traffic flow and help reduce congestion in Malé City.
