President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that the Maldives' National Day celebrations will be officially held in Utheemu at a national level, bringing focus to an island that previous governments had overlooked.
He made the remarks during his visit to Utheemu, during his tour of the islands in North Thiladhunmathi Atoll.
The President noted that HA. Utheemu is historically significant as the birthplace of the three distinguished Utheemu brothers, who led the resistance against Portuguese invaders centuries ago. The palace and other historic structures where they once resided remain preserved to this day. While emphasising the importance of protecting these heritage sites, he highlighted their vital role in safeguarding the nation's identity. He assured that preserving these historical landmarks would be given utmost priority, with all necessary measures taken in the national interest.
President Dr Muizzu stated that the two-year project of celebrating National Day in Utheemu would promote national consciousness ideologically, charting a clear path for Utheemu's significant role. He emphasised that Utheemu plays a crucial part in the Government's efforts to renew the nation's identity and pass it on to future generations. The President described the island, in its entirety, as a source of pride for every citizen, with the stories in the eyes of the people serving as integral elements of the national heritage.
The President also highlighted the critical role that Utheemu plays in the pace of the Government's development. He assured that significant efforts would be made on the island, with several infrastructure projects already underway. While noting the need for further operations in Utheemu, he added that special attention would be given to the island. He stressed that these efforts should not be seen as separate from other cities but should be approached in the best interest of the country as a whole, reinforcing the principles of equality and fairness.
The President promised to work toward the development of Utheemu and expressed his hope to return to the island to celebrate this year's National Day.
At the ceremony, an agreement was signed to establish a bank ATM on the island. The agreement was made between the Utheemu Council and the Bank of Maldives (BML).
During his visit, the President attended the groundbreaking ceremonies for the new Secretariat building of the Utheemu Council office and the police station. In two separate events, the Minister of Cities, Local Government, and Public Works, Adam Shareef Umar, laid the foundation stone for the Utheemu Council Office, while the Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihusaan, laid the foundation stone for the police station.
The President's visit to Utheemu is part of his three-day tour of North Thiladhunmathi Atoll, during which he will visit 10 islands. As the third stop on his first day, Utheemu represents part of an ongoing series of visits to all atolls, where the President engages with local councils of atolls, islands, and cities. He is accompanied by Cabinet Ministers and heads of various Government institutions.
