Maldives has observed a moment of silence today, commemorating two decades since the devastating 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami that claimed 82 Maldivian lives and left 26 others missing.

The national observance took place at 9:23 a.m. – the exact time the waves struck the island nation 20 years ago.

Government offices across Malé came to a standstill as employees stepped outside to join the remembrance. The ceremony was attended by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, who gathered with senior Government officials, ministers, and staff near the former Huravee Building south of the President's Office.

The catastrophic waves of 2004 left an indelible mark on the nation, affecting all but nine inhabited islands and displacing 15,000 people from their homes. In recognition of the extraordinary unity and resilience demonstrated by Maldivians in the aftermath of the disaster, December 26 is now observed annually as the National Unity Day.

The commemoration serves as both a memorial to those lost and a testament to the nation's strength in collectively responding to one of its greatest challenges.