Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage Adam Naseer Ibrahim has said that Maldivians must remain prepared to fight for their independence, just as previous generations made sacrifices to protect the nation.
The minister made the remarks while speaking at a panel discussion held to mark the 1447th Martyrs’ Day.
In his address, the minister said the Maldives’ 4,000-year history has been shaped by sacrifice, including countless sleepless nights and acts of selflessness by earlier generations.
He cautioned that it cannot be taken for granted that the aggressive attacks faced by the Maldives in the past will not recur in a different form. He stressed the importance of continued vigilance in safeguarding the country’s independence, calling on the public to face any challenges with courage and determination.
“A state is formed through defence, and a country survives through defence. We must always remain awake. Now comes the attack of intellectual warfare. We must be vigilant,” the minister said.
The minister said the current government is making significant efforts to strengthen historical awareness among the public.
“Bringing back the history of the people, re-teaching people to value heritage—through these efforts, a country can be united. Just as a tree needs roots, a country needs its history and must know the sacrifices of its ancestors,” he said.
He further stated that no country has the right to ignore threats to its independence and urged the public to remain alert to the ongoing intellectual warfare in the world.
The minister emphasised that every Maldivian should be cautious about what they see, the information they consume, and the knowledge they acquire, adding that people should always reflect on what is most beneficial for them and for the nation.