President Muizzu Opens Onuhiya Park in Utheemu, Launches Tribute to Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on Sunday inaugurated 'Onuhiya', a newly established park dedicated to senior citizens, and officiated the foundation-laying of the Bodu Thakurufaanu Gate, a commemorative structure marking the formal commencement of the Project for Revitalising the Legacy of Ghazi Bandaarain. Both events formed the ceremonial core of this year’s National Day observances in Utheemu, Haa Alifu Atoll.

The inauguration of Onuhiya was followed by a symbolic tree planting, where President Muizzu and First Lady Sajidha Mohamed placed two Haivakaru (teak) trees within the square. The gesture paid tribute to Sultan al-Ghazi Muhammad Thakurufaanu al-Auzam Siri Savadheetha Maha Radhun, revered nationally as Bodu Thakurufaanu, whose leadership remains emblematic of Maldivian independence and Islamic heritage.

That legacy was further honoured through the launch of the heritage initiative, which began with the groundbreaking of the 'Bodu Thakurufaanu Dhoraashi', or Gate. The ceremony was officiated by Adam Naseer Ibrahim, Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage. Conceived as a symbolic structure, the gate commemorates the six warriors of 'Kalhuohfummi', the sailboat used by Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu in his campaign to liberate the Maldives from Portuguese colonial rule.

Designed with historical reverence, the gate features six pillars inspired by ancient Maldivian mosque architecture, each representing one of the liberation heroes. By night, six lights will illuminate the structure, offering a visual homage to what officials described as the “unfading memories” of their sacrifice.

The event drew senior government officials, including Vice President Hussain Mohamed Latheef, Speaker of Parliament Abdul Raheem Abdulla, Chief Justice Abdul Ghanee Mohamed, and other dignitaries.