Ministry Pledges Support for Local Arts

Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage Heena Waleed has assured local councils of the Ministry’s full cooperation and technical support in initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting the Dhivehi language, arts and cultural heritage.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Naiboli Madaha Competition, organised by the Lh. Naifaru Council, Minister Heena said nurturing artistic talent remains an important focus of the Ministry’s ongoing efforts.

She said the Ministry is prepared to provide technical expertise and professional assistance to councils undertaking programmes designed to develop and encourage artistic and cultural skills within their communities.

Highlighting Naifaru’s rich literary heritage, Minister Heena noted that the late Al-Sheikh Huiy Ali Didi, popularly known in Dhivehi poetry was a native of the island. She also highlighted his son, the late Faleelathul-Shaikh Abdulla Jalaluddeen, known as “Naifaree,” as another prominent figure in Dhivehi poetry.

Given Naifaru’s contribution to Dhivehi literature, Minister Heena expressed hope that the island would continue to produce talented individuals in the fields of language, literature and the arts.

She also called on local councils to give greater priority to the preservation of the Dhivehi language, arts and cultural heritage.

“It is a profound responsibility upon all of us to protect these heritages for future generations, safeguard our language, and revive our culture and national identity,” she said.

Minister Heena further announced that Naifaru would be given special consideration when the Ministry organises similar large-scale cultural and artistic events in the future.

She concluded by reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to providing comprehensive technical and professional assistance to the Naifaru Council and other local councils across the country.