Government on Tuesday signed a contract with the Road Development Corporation (RDC) that would task the State-owned firm to develop and restore the heritage and cultural sites in Kelaa, Haa Alifu Atoll.
Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage, Adam Naseer Ibrahim signed the agreement on behalf of the government while Managing Director Brigadier General (Rt) Ali Zuhair signed on behalf of RDC.
Speaking at the agreement signing ceremony, Minister Adam Naseer said the Strategic Action Plan of the Ministry has attached increased significance to instill a spirit of developing and protecting heritage monuments in every island across the Maldives.
The Minister told PSM News that this initiative aligns with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s vision for protecting the country’s cultural and heritage sites while advocating for cultural and heritage tourism.
He also alluded to the President Dr Miuzzu’s wider vision for the culturally rich Haa Alifu Atoll which also includes Thakandhoo, Baarah and Utheemu underscoring the administration's dedication to prioritising cultural and national promotion. Thakandhoo hosts numerous cultural and heritage sites, including the mausoleum of Ali Thakurufaanu from Utheemu and the country's largest coral stone graveyard.
"The heritage of the people should symbolise the true identity and character of the people in every island. It means to preserve and present the essence of our stories and way of life through such projects. That's what we are working towards,” he explained.
Speaking during the ceremony, Abdulla Shareef, the island’s representative in Parliament said that the diverse cultural identity of Kelaa has been ignored for many years.
However, he expressed confidence that this Administration will right the injustice and develop and preserve the heritage sites in the island within the next five years.
The Ministry of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage has been actively engaged in several initiatives to promote knowledge about nationality and cultural identity. These efforts include preserving and promoting Maldivian culture, which encompasses the Dhivehi language, traditional arts, and heritage. Additional initiatives involve integrating cultural and national identity topics into the curriculum and conducting public awareness campaigns to educate citizens about the significance of their national identity and cultural heritage.