Muizzu says true independence lies in preserving Maldivian values as nation modernises

MALE – Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said genuine independence extends beyond economic growth and infrastructure, stressing that the nation's future depends on preserving its cultural identity, moral values and traditions alongside development.

Speaking on Nation Chat, a podcast produced by Public Service Media (PSM), President Muizzu said the Maldives must remain anchored in the values that have historically defined its people if it is to achieve lasting prosperity and true sovereignty.

Reflecting on the country's past, the President said Maldivians were once widely recognised for their mutual respect, strong moral character and close-knit communities. He warned that even the most ambitious infrastructure projects and economic achievements would not constitute genuine independence if the nation lost sight of its identity and values.

"No matter how much economic advancement is achieved or how many buildings are constructed, true independence cannot be realised without preserving the values that define the Maldivian people," he said.

President Muizzu argued that the erosion of respect and good conduct began during a period of political division, claiming some political actors had undermined the culture of mutual respect for partisan gain. He said politics should be used to improve the country and serve its people, adding that sincerity, respect and good manners should never be sacrificed for political objectives.

He said his administration is working to reverse that trend through a nationwide campaign promoting respect, describing it as more than a government programme but a movement requiring the participation of all Maldivians.

The President also outlined a series of initiatives aimed at preparing the next generation of Maldivians, including the expansion of the National Service programme, greater access to education and increased opportunities in vocational and technical training. He said these measures are intended to equip young people with the skills needed to support the country's long term development.

Looking ahead, President Muizzu announced that advisory councils to provide recommendations on national affairs are expected to be established within the next three months. He also revealed plans to establish a Youth Parliament and introduce additional legal measures to strengthen the participation of young people and women in national development.

Digital transformation remains another cornerstone of the administration's agenda. The President said the Maldives 2.0 initiative is designed to modernise government services, eliminate corruption and create a more transparent, efficient and citizen centred public sector. He emphasised that all relevant stakeholders would have the opportunity to participate in the initiative.

His remarks come just days after the President reaffirmed his administration's commitment to strengthening the country's justice system during the inauguration of the Hulhumalé Court Complex. At the ceremony, President Muizzu described an independent and accessible judiciary as a cornerstone of democratic governance and national development, saying investments in modern judicial infrastructure would improve public confidence and access to justice across the Maldives.

The President concluded the podcast by reflecting on the recent internal elections of the governing People's National Congress (PNC), expressing confidence that the party's congress in September would demonstrate the strength of its internal democratic processes.

The comments form part of a broader narrative from the Muizzu administration that combines economic modernisation, institutional reform and digital transformation with efforts to reinforce national identity and social cohesion as the Maldives charts its long term development path.