Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture, and Heritage, Adam Naseer Ibrahim, announced yesterday that the Maldivian government is in the process of drafting a law to safeguard the national flag and state emblem. This move aims to address the current lack of regulations governing the use and protection of these national symbols.
In a press conference held at the President's Office, Minister Naseer underscored the need for legal measures to preserve the dignity of both the national flag and the state emblem. He highlighted that there are presently no specific regulations that govern the usage of these symbols, which has led to instances of disrespect and misuse.
"The government intends to introduce a law to address this issue and ensure that the national flag and state emblem are treated with the respect they deserve," Naseer stated. This bill will align with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's broader policy to uphold and protect the national symbols and promote national pride.
The proposed law is part of a broader effort initiated by President Muizzu to enhance the visibility and reverence for the national flag. In a notable change from previous practices, the President decreed that the Maldivian flag will now be hoisted 24 hours a day. This includes flag-raising at government office buildings, ministerial residences, and state vehicles—an adjustment from the previous practice of flag-raising at 06:00 hrs and lowering at 18:00 hrs.
The government's initiative is designed to revive the tradition of flag hoisting, increase the flag’s visibility, and foster a greater sense of nationalism and patriotism among the Maldivian people. Additionally, the establishment of a special college dedicated to researching Maldivian nationalism, named ‘Dhivehi Gaumiyyathuge Isvaaru,’ was announced earlier this month. This institution will focus on five primary areas: Dhivehi Language, Maldivian History, Maldivian Heritage, Maldivian Data, and Maldivian Arts.
The college aims to deepen the understanding of Maldivian cultural identity and enhance efforts to promote national pride and heritage.
The proposed legislation to protect the Maldivian flag and state emblem represents a significant step towards reinforcing national pride and preserving the country's cultural heritage. By ensuring that these symbols are safeguarded through legal means, the government is not only honoring the nation’s identity but also setting a precedent for respecting national symbols. The establishment of the research college further underscores the commitment to deeply understanding and celebrating Maldivian heritage, which could lead to more robust cultural preservation efforts in the future.
