As the Maldives commemorates the 20th anniversary of the devastating tsunami of December 26, 2004, memories of that tragic day remain deeply etched in the nation's collective consciousness. The catastrophe not only altered the physical landscape but also revolutionised the country's approach to disaster management and preparedness.

In the immediate aftermath, terms like "kaarisaa" and "viluntherikan" became part of the everyday lexicon. Yet, the tsunami's legacy extends far beyond language, marking the genesis of significant institutional and technical strides to minimise the impact of future emergencies.

The nation's recovery began swiftly, with an arduous rebuilding process set in motion within days. At the forefront was the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), an institution that emerged as a cornerstone of the Maldives' resilience strategy. Initially formed as a task force, NDMA grew into a central body responsible for coordinating relief efforts and guiding long-term recovery.

The first National Emergency Response Centre was established at Iskandar School, serving as a vital hub for relief operations. Over time, it evolved into the National Disaster Management Centre, under the stewardship of then Defence Minister Ismail Shafeeu. Collaboration with international organisations and foreign governments became instrumental in delivering aid and support to affected communities.

In subsequent years, the centre was rebranded as the National Disaster Management Authority, following the enactment of the Disaster Management Act by parliament. This legislation solidified the framework for disaster response and underscored the Maldives' commitment to building national resilience.

The latest milestone in this ongoing journey is the Maldives Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy 2024–2030, recently approved by the National Disaster Management Council, chaired by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. This ambitious blueprint aims to create a disaster-ready and resilient society through sustainable development initiatives.

In a recent interview with MMTV, NDMA Deputy Chief Executive Umar Moosa Fikry reflected on the progress made since 2004. He noted that at the time of the tsunami, the Maldives lacked a dedicated institution to manage disaster response. Today, the nation boasts a robust legal framework and a suite of long-term initiatives designed to address such challenges effectively.

Highlighting recent advancements, Umar revealed the Government's ongoing efforts to establish regional emergency operation centres, starting with Kulhudhuffushi. Under the President’s directive, the goal is to ensure nationwide readiness, with all regions adequately equipped to respond to emergencies.

Two decades after the tsunami, the NDMA continues to symbolise resilience and determination, embodying the unyielding spirit of the Maldivian people. What began as a desperate response to an unprecedented disaster has evolved into a comprehensive, proactive approach to safeguarding the nation’s future.