President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that National Day celebrations for 2025 and 2026 will be held at the national level in Haa Alif Utheemu. 

This marks a shift from previous years when the event was observed on a smaller scale.

President Dr Muizzu revealed the plans during his official visit to Utheemu, where he addressed residents and outlined a vision for a more comprehensive celebration. The initiative includes transforming the National Day into a project that highlights the historical and cultural significance of Utheemu. Planned activities will involve preserving and maintaining key sites on the island, including Utheemu Ganduvaru, and implementing programmes aimed at fostering national unity and patriotism.

According to the President, these celebrations will allow Utheemu to play a central role in promoting the national ideology and strengthening patriotism across the country. He emphasised the island’s importance in passing on a sense of national pride to future generations, noting that Utheemu is a vital part of the Government’s broader efforts to inspire and revive love for the nation.

The President also highlighted the need for infrastructure development in Utheemu, stating that such efforts would be carried out equitably under his Administration. As part of these developments, the President officiated the transfer of a construction project for an ATM building to the Utheemu Council. The agreement, made in collaboration with the Bank of Maldives, was handed over to the council’s president, Abdulla Rasheed, with the bank represented by Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Shareef.

During his visit, President Dr Muizzu engaged in discussions with the island’s local leadership, including the council, the women’s development committee, and other institutions. The meetings focused on addressing the needs and concerns of the island’s residents, further solidifying the government’s commitment to Utheem’s development and the enhancement of local services.