The Minister of Defence, Mohamed Ghassan Maumoon, has formally conveyed his appreciation to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu for his unwavering efforts in strengthening the capacity and operational readiness of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).

In a statement issued via the social media platform X, the Minister extended sincere felicitations to the Chief of Army Staff, senior leadership of the MNDF, all ranks of service personnel, and their families on the occasion of the 133rd anniversary of the Maldivian military. He expressed profound gratitude—both in his official capacity and as a Maldivian citizen—for the President’s steadfast dedication to the advancement and modernisation of the country’s defence establishment.

The Minister emphasised that the progress achieved in recent years in terms of military preparedness and strategic capability would not have been possible without the vision and commitment of the Commander-in-Chief. He noted that such developments are integral to the safeguarding of national sovereignty and the preservation of peace and stability in the Republic.

To mark this occasion, a ceremonial flag-raising was conducted across all Army Area Command centres throughout the nation. The central ceremony was attended by high-ranking defence officials, including Chief of Defence Force Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, Vice Chief of Defence Force Brigadier General Ahmed Ghiyas, senior general officers, the MNDF Sergeant Major, as well as a considerable number of officers, warrant officers, and enlisted personnel.

The ceremony concluded with a dedicated prayer and a rendition of the soldiers’ anthem.