A dedicated space showcasing Maldivian books, history and literature has been officially opened at the Maldives Cultural Centre in Malaysia under the name ‘Maldives Corner in Malaysia’.
The facility was inaugurated by Maldives High Commissioner to Malaysia Dr Mariyam Shabeena Ahmed, at a ceremony attended by members of the Maldivian community and students pursuing their studies in Malaysia.
Speaking at the event, Dr Shabeena said the initiative was introduced to provide Maldivians living and studying in the country with convenient access to books and publications from home, bringing them together in one accessible location.
She highlighted the importance of promoting the Dhivehi language and literature, expressing hope that the corner would encourage younger generations to maintain a strong connection with their language, heritage and cultural identity.
In addition to serving the Maldivian community, the facility will make publications covering the Maldives’ culture, history and literary works available to different communities throughout Malaysia. Reciprocal arrangements have also been made to introduce Malaysian publications to libraries and educational institutions in the Maldives.
The initiative will further provide an opportunity to share academic research on the Maldives conducted by Maldivian students and other individuals residing in Malaysia, allowing researchers and interested readers to access their work.
The High Commission also plans to organize literary and cultural programmes at the venue as part of broader efforts to promote Maldivian heritage and strengthen cultural ties between the two countries.
The Maldives National Library, Dhivehi Language Academy, Novelty Bookshop and private organisation Thakeethi have supported the project by donating an extensive collection of books.
Maldives Corner was initially soft-launched on 7 August 2025, marking the 60th anniversary of the Maldives’ independence. Further plans are in place to digitize its services and extend access to the collection to libraries and educational institutions across the Maldives.
The planned digital expansion forms part of efforts to enhance technology-based services and advance digitalization, in line with a key commitment outlined in President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s presidential manifesto.
