Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage Heena Waleed has said Dhivehi writers play an important role in preserving cultural values and strengthening national identity among younger generations.

In a message issued on National Writers’ Day, the minister said writers have contributed to shaping society through literature by promoting knowledge, values and a culture of reading.

Reflecting on the history of Dhivehi literature, Minister Heena highlighted the contributions of publications such as “Al-Islah”, which she said helped awaken public awareness through scholarly writings, and the “Vaahaka Committee”, which encouraged reading and literary creativity among Maldivians.

She said writers have carried the responsibility of nurturing civilised values and national identity among children, adding that each writer has upheld the trust associated with being a responsible and committed writer.

The minister also expressed hope for the continued development of Dhivehi literature and called for greater efforts to promote reading and writing in the Dhivehi language.

National Writers’ Day is observed to recognise the contributions of writers in protecting cultural values, developing the Dhivehi language and encouraging future generations of writers. Through literature, traditions, history and national identity are preserved and passed on to future generations.