Historian and recipient of the Order of the Dignified Rule of the Dhiyamigili Dynasty, ‘Kashima’ Ahmed Shakir has stated that historical research has been done on identifying traditions and cultures associated with giving respect to one another carried out by the Maldivian people in the past, in line with the preparations for the rollout of the nationwide National Respect Initiative.
Speaking on PSM News’ Raajje Miadhu programme about the National Respect Campaign, Shakir said efforts were being made to examine Maldivian history to identify the values and qualities that have traditionally distinguished Maldivians.
He said the initiative also seeks to understand how Maldivians lived historically and bring together the qualities that characterised their way of life.
Shakir said Maldivians had traditionally demonstrated positive qualities in showing respect in social, health and civic settings. He added that respect had become an ingrained practice among Maldivians both psychologically and naturally.
Shakir said efforts were being made to examine how practices of showing respect among Maldivians had changed over time and to revive those traditions. He said the happiness of society was built on the positive traditions of Maldivians, adding that looking after one another was closely connected to the Maldivian way of life.
He further said that building a well-functioning society would bring benefits, gains and advantages to the country. According to Shakir, the country would not benefit without establishing a well-organised and positive society.
Shakir said President Dr Mohamed Muizzu recognised the importance of reviving the practice of showing respect among Maldivians. He described the National Respect Campaign as an important project aimed at restoring the positive traditions of Maldivians.
As part of the National Respect Project, work is currently under way to develop a dedicated website. The website is being designed to feature various messages, photographs and videos from activities, as well as written content related to the project.