The Government announced further details of the initiatives approved by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu for implementation under the five-year National Respect Initiative, today.
The decisions were approved by the Cabinet following consideration of a paper submitted by the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage at the Cabinet meeting held on Sunday, 6 September 2026.
The Cabinet’s decision follows the President’s commitment to revitalising the values of respect and good character that have been upheld in Maldivian society for generations. The five-year National Respect Initiative will be implemented nationwide under the slogan, “Ikhthiraam ge Ufaa – Mujthamau ge Nafaa” (Value of Respect – Benefit to Society).
A nine-member committee comprising individuals with relevant expertise will be established to provide strategic guidance and oversight for the implementation of the National Respect Initiative. The committee will include representatives from the following institutions in addition to Public Service Media (PSM):
• Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage
• Ministry of Defence and National Service
• Ministry of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology
• Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises
• Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Skills Development
• Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Endowments
• Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness
Additionally, the Government has decided to designate one day each year as National Respect Day, to be commemorated at the national level. The day will also serve as the official inauguration of the five-year National Respect Initiative.