Islam, language & culture important for nationalism – President

Sunday, March 1st, 2009

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President Mohamed Nasheed has said that Islam, Dhivehi language, and the culture of the country are the most important heritages for developing our nationalism. The President made the statement while speaking at a function held in Dhidhdhoo on Friday evening to mark the National Day.

Speaking at the ceremony, President Nasheed said many philosophers, who had written on the subject of nationalism, agreed that nationalism evolved in tandem with the literature of a nation. He added that a people became a nation with the emergence of shared but unique characteristics.

In his address, President also elaborated on the history of the various dynasties that had ruled in the Maldives.

Speaking on the importance of a liberal form of nationalism, President Nasheed said that fundamental freedoms such as free speech, freedom of expression, and freedom of assembly, could all contribute to the country’s sense of nationalism. He added that the current constitution would pave the way for the evolution of a better form of nationalism.

Furthermore, he stressed that the country’s nationalism could only be sustained by studying history through critical and scientific methods. He therefore encouraged the young generations to get involved in historical research.

President Nasheed also presented Presidential Awards in recognition of outstanding services to the tourism industry.

Speaking at the function, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Dr Ahmed Ali Sawad announced the government’s decision to give extra four national awards for services to the tourism sector, starting from next year. The four awards will be Tourism Employment Award, Tourist Ambassador Award dedicated for tour guides, Dive School Awards and Tourist Cruise Vessel Award.

The function was concluded with a special supplication.

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