President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has called on Maldivian writers to uphold truth, patriotism and national values in their work, saying writers should produce work that brings honour and distinction to the country.
In a post shared on social media, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu extended his congratulations and best wishes to all Maldivian writers and the public on the occasion of the Maldives' 34th National Writers' Day.
The President said that the noble religion of Islam encourages education, the dissemination of truthful information, and the advancement of writing and literacy. He therefore advised everyone who writes in the Dhivehi language to promote truth, communicate with courtesy, and share positive ideas and reflections that will benefit both present and future generations.
President Muizzu said that Maldivian writers should be trustworthy, patriotic citizens who write in ways that will always make the nation proud and enhance its reputation.
National Writers' Day in the Maldives is observed because the country's first magazine was published on 8 July 1933. The publication was called "Al-Islah". However, the day was officially recognised and first commemorated nationwide on 8 July 1993.
Looking at Maldivian history, writers have played a responsible and significant role in the development of the nation. Religious scholars have contributed through Islamic scholarship, literary scholars through literature, and historians through historical writing. Journalists and political figures have also made important contributions in their respective fields.