President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that Usgekolhu, a historic site in Malé, will be transformed into an immersive museum and opened to the public within this year.
The President made the announcement while delivering his third Presidential Statement. He said the project forms part of broader efforts to preserve and revitalise Maldivian heritage and make it accessible to future generations.
Located within Sultan Park, Usgekolhu was once part of the Royal Palace and later served as the country’s National Museum. The redevelopment aims to restore the site and re-establish it as a centre for Maldivian history and culture through digital and interactive exhibits.
President Muizzu said heritage preservation efforts are also underway across the atolls, with key conservation work taking place in Utheemu, Thakandhoo, and Baarah. He added that a nomination dossier has been submitted to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre for the inscription of the Maldives’ historic stone mosques and carvings on the World Heritage List.
The President confirmed that construction of the country’s first interactive immersive museum is currently underway at the 'Usgekolhu' site adding the digital museum will be opened this year.
He also highlighted parallel initiatives to revive traditional culture and crafts, including the development of National Occupational Competency Standards for National Certificate Level 3 programmes in areas such as carpentry, weaving, lacquer work, and traditional craftsmanship.
In addition, President Muizzu said work will begin this year on establishing a lacquer training centre in Thulhaadhoo, a handicraft training centre in Rinbudhoo, and a weaving skills centre in Gaadhoo. He further announced plans to launch a national campaign aimed at reviving cultural values and strengthening social conduct and community relationships.