Honourable Ministers, Mr. Michael Friedel, Mrs. Friedel, Mr. Ismail Hilmy, Ladies and Gentlemen:
The first batch of tourists arrived in the Maldives in February 1972. A year later, when our pioneering entrepreneurs, in the springtime of their youth, were energetically pursuing ways to build on their newfound venture, a high class German professional photographer entered into that setting.
That renowned photographer was none other than our esteemed friend here, Mr. Michael Friedel.
I have known Mr. Friedel for many years. He is an exceptional artist, a man of rare vision and a great lover of nature. His artistic contribution to the promotion of tourism in the Maldives over the past 30 years has been immense.
His pictures, taken on land, from air, and from above and below water, speak volumes about the beauty of our beaches, our islands, our reefs, our vegetation, and our way of life. They bring home to us the truth of the Chinese saying – “A picture may be worth a thousand words.”
While his aerial shots have depicted our enchanting islands from a new perspective for most people in the country, his stickers, post-cards and map of the Maldives have drawn the attention of many potential travellers.
Therefore, today, it gives me a great pleasure to declare open Mr. Friedel’s photo exhibition featuring many of those magical moments.
Mr. Sobir just mentioned that I took a photograph of him and his wife recently, and that he admired that photograph. Well, I must say that if that photograph is any good all the credit is due to Mr. Michael Friedel. Because, when I met him many years ago he gave me some very important tips about how to take pictures, and I think those tips have helped me in producing some of my photographs, which are of course nothing to compare with those of Mr. Friedel.
Like many around the world, I am also an admirer of Mr. Friedel’s works, which focus on scenery and people. These have opened the eyes of millions everywhere to the beauty of nature, and to the comfort, the rest, and the joy that unspoiled environments promise. I am sure that many of us present here share Mr. Friedel’s fondness for those fleeting moments of rare beauty that can stay alive on film for an eternity.
Indeed, by highlighting what is unique, rare, and different, his work has taught people to love nature, value friendships, respect different cultures, and cherish peace. His quest for idyllic islands of eternal summer, unlike today, has not only uncovered a world of dreams, but has shone a light on a path of warmth and human fellowship.
For his excellent skills and output, Mr. Friedel has earned many prestigious awards and accolades. In 1975, four of his photographs were included in the stamp set issued to mark the 10th anniversary of our independence. A decade ago, on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of our tourism, he was given a Government commemorative award for his services to our tourist industry. He has also won several honours, from his homeland to China, and from the Seychelles to Mexico.
Perhaps, there is no greater joy than to see a labour of love bear fruit, and bring success to all concerned. Such is the story of the Maldives and Michael Friedel. I am confident that many of our aspiring young photographers will draw inspiration from the artistic excellence of Michael Friedel that is showcased in this exhibition.
Visitors to this presentation will no doubt be fascinated by the stories told by each picture individually, and by all together.
Thank you.