Mutual respect is one of the fundamental qualities of a society shaped by Islamic values and should be strengthened across the Maldives, Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage Heena Waleed has said.
Speaking on PSM News programme “Raajje Miadhu,” Heena outlined the government’s plans for a nationwide initiative aimed at promoting respect, good character and stronger relationships within communities.
The five-year National Respect Initiative is being prepared under the slogan “Ikhthiraam ge Ufaa – Mujthamau ge Nafaa,” translated as “Value of Respect – Benefit to Society.”
Heena said respect has historically been closely connected to Maldivian identity, pointing to hospitality, unity, compassion and solidarity as qualities traditionally associated with Maldivian communities.
She said the campaign seeks to strengthen those values and encourage people to incorporate respect more consciously into their everyday interactions.
According to the minister, the initiative is also closely connected to the government’s wider efforts to preserve and strengthen Dhivehi language, culture, heritage and national identity.
Heena said Islamic values have played a central role in shaping Maldivian customs and social conduct, with respect for others forming an important part of those principles.
She said efforts to strengthen national identity should therefore include reviving positive social qualities passed down through generations, including good manners, compassion, unity and consideration for others.
The programme will not be limited to government institutions.
Heena said discussions have already been held with non-governmental organisations and community groups to ensure broad participation, with activities planned for different sections of society.
The initiative is also being designed to include persons with disabilities and other groups across the country.
The minister said cooperation from communities and institutions would be important if the programme is to produce lasting changes in social behaviour.
The National Respect Initiative was formally approved by the Cabinet on September 6 following a proposal submitted by the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage.
The government subsequently announced that the programme would run for five years and cover inhabited islands across the country.
A nine-member committee comprising representatives from relevant government institutions will be established to provide strategic guidance and oversee implementation.
The committee will include representatives from the ministries responsible for culture, defence, homeland security, finance, education, Islamic affairs and youth, alongside Public Service Media.
The government has also decided to establish an annual National Respect Day. The designated day will be observed nationally and will also mark the formal inauguration of the five-year initiative.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu first announced plans for a nationwide programme promoting mutual respect during his Presidential Address in February.
At the time, he said the government intended to develop a broader national vision focused on strengthening social values and relationships traditionally associated with Maldivian society.
The President also linked the initiative to the “Bingaa” character-building programme introduced in schools this year, which focuses on instilling values, good character and mutual respect among students.
Earlier this month, Muizzu called for the initiative to receive support across political and institutional lines, saying the programme should extend to every inhabited island and involve Maldivians from across society.
Media organisations have also begun joining the campaign. The Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage recently signed agreements with Public Service Media and 16 other media organisations to support awareness activities under the initiative.
Meanwhile, work is underway on a dedicated website for the programme.
The ministry said the platform will serve as a central source of information about the campaign and will carry awareness material, photographs, videos, documents and updates on activities conducted across the country.
Heena expressed confidence that participation from government institutions, civil society organisations, the media and communities could help the initiative produce positive and lasting social change.
