Highest honour of service to Maldivian Nationalism posthumously awarded to Late Hussain Salahuddin

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has posthumously awarded the Highest Honour for Service to Maldivian Nationalism to the late Hussain Salahuddin. The accolade was presented during an official ceremony at Dharubaaruge, held in conjunction with National Day celebrations. The medal of honor was accepted by the late Sheikh Hussain Salahuddin's grandson, Ahmed Shihab.

The President recognised Hussain Salahuddin for his outstanding contributions to the advancement of the nation’s core principles, including religion, language, heritage, and culture. Salahuddin’s commitment to enriching Maldivian intellectual life and promoting national service through knowledge dissemination was particularly noted. The Highest Honour for Service to Maldivian Nationalism is the President’s highest award, granted to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to Maldivian nationalism. Recipients of this honor receive a shield of honor.

Hussain Salahuddin, renowned as one of the most innovative poets in Maldivian history, was a pivotal figure in upholding the nation's nationalistic values. His work on biography of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) demonstrates his deep knowledge and fluency in both Dhivehi and Arabic.

Hussain Salahuddin began his education at the age of 14, arriving in Malé to further his studies. He founded several educational institutions, including Madhrasath al-Salahiya, Madhrasath al-Saniyya, Madhrasath-ul-Majeediyya, and Madrasath-al-Aminiya. He authored over 50 novels in various fields and was appointed Chief Justice during the reign of Sultan Muhammad Shamsuddin III. Additionally, he played a significant role in drafting the country’s first constitution. He passed away on 20 September 1948 in Sri Lanka.

The Highest Honour for Service to Maldivian Nationalism is the most prestigious accolade awarded by the President, recognising exceptional service to the nation. President Muizzu conferred this honor under the authority granted by Article 6 of the Honor Act of Maldives.