A Cultural Centre being established at Maldives Polytechnic will serve as a hub for reviving and preserving the traditional craft of feyli weaving, with the facility expected to open in November, according to the Business Center Corporation (BCC).
The announcement was made during the fifth meeting of Parliament's Committee on National Development and Heritage, which met on Monday to discuss the current state of feyli weaving in the Maldives and measures to revive the traditional craft.
Speaking at the meeting, Managing Director of BCC Ibrahim Ziyau said the Cultural Centre would play a key role in efforts to sustain and promote feyli weaving, which has seen a decline in recent years. He noted that Maldives Polytechnic is currently consulting with experts and stakeholders to support the initiative and develop programmes aimed at preserving the craft.
Ziyau also revealed that Cultural Centres planned for Thulhaadhoo, Baa Atoll and Gahdhoo, Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll are expected to open in July next year.
Furthermore, Ziyau said specialised feyli weaving machines will be installed at both centres, while training programmes will be introduced to ensure the transfer of knowledge and skills to future generations.
"We are currently carrying out numerous initiatives alongside many individuals involved in this field," Ziyau said.
Representatives from the Ministry of Economic Development, Transport and Trade also highlighted challenges facing the survival of traditional crafts.
Deputy Minister Aish Mohamed told the committee that one of the main reasons crafts such as feyli weaving are at risk is the limited income generated by those engaged in the trade. She added that the lack of opportunities to develop specialised skills and difficulties in accessing markets have also contributed to the decline of the industry.
According to Aish, a structured system for teaching traditional crafts will be introduced through the Cultural Centre once it becomes operational.
"An action plan has been formulated, and the development of the Cultural Centre is progressing in accordance with the Cabinet decision made on 30 December," he said.
The Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage informed the committee that it continues to work to preserve the Maldives' intangible cultural heritage within its institutional capacity.
Efforts to revive traditional crafts and cultural practices, including feyli weaving, form part of a broader initiative being implemented under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's administration.
The Cultural Centres planned across different regions of the country are expected to play a central role in preserving and promoting these traditions for future generations.