On February 8, 2025, Asia Pacific University (APU) transformed into a vibrant hub of Maldivian culture as students and attendees gathered for Maldivian Eve: A Voyage of Memories.

The air was thick with nostalgia—the scent of Maldivian delicacies drifting through the corridors, and the rhythmic beats of Boduberu echoing in the hearts of every Maldivian present. This was a night where time folded, and home was no longer an ocean away.

The event was graced by the presence of H.E. Dr Mariyam Shabeena Ahmed, High Commissioner of Maldives to Malaysia. Students from multiple universities—including APU, Sunway University, Nottingham University Malaysia, and Multimedia University (MMU)—participated. 

Throughout the evening, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, attendees explored booths that showcased Maldivian culture. MMU presented handcrafted jewelry, Sunway University hosted trivia, karaoke, and traditional games, and Nottingham University served mashuni and roshi, and cultural keepsakes

Meanwhile, Gulisthaan’s booth brought the flavours of home to the event, serving hedhika and other Maldivian delicacies that filled the air with familiar and comforting aromas. Visitors indulged in crispy golden bajiya, cutlets  packed with tuna and potatoes, coconut-infused havaadhulee bis, and other beloved short eats and snacks.

Muhammad Shuraih from Nottingham University described it as "a spectacular event" where Maldivians from different universities "formed deep bonds."

He added that the traditional booths evoked "a sense of nostalgia as we walked through APU that night."

As the sun set, performances began at 8:00 PM, turning the night into a dynamic showcase of Maldivian culture through music, dance, and other performances.

For Ahmed Afshan Haneef, Project Advisor (APU), Maldivian Eve started as a simple idea—one born out of a longing to bring together the Maldivian community in Malaysia. "From a small idea to the execution of Maldivian Eve, everyone involved has put in a great effort to make this a reality," he shared.

"Our aim was to create a platform for the Maldivian community in Malaysia to come together, celebrate, and appreciate our culture, food, and traditions. The APU Maldivian Community will continue to host this event annually, and we look forward to more universities being part of this next year."

This was more than just an event. It was a journey, a labour of love, and for many, a deeply personal experience. At the core of Maldivian Eve was a group of passionate performers, each bringing a unique touch to the celebration.

Ahmed Shaihaan Shiyam, Project Manager and performer (APU), balanced two roles. "When I first took on the role of project manager for Maldivian Eve, I knew it would be an incredible yet challenging experience," he said.

When he stepped onto the stage, though, it became something even deeper. "I wasn’t just representing Maldivian culture; I was living it," he shared. "Every movement, every beat told a story, carrying with it the soul of our traditions"​.

For singer Mohamed Haiaan Abdulla from Sunway University, the event was more than just about performance—it was about breaking barriers. "Maldivians tend to separate themselves from each other," he observed.

"When different universities come together like Maldivian Eve, you really get to connect with other Maldivians and I also reunited with a friend of mine who’s from my middle school."

His heartfelt rendition of Kudhi Jazeera had resonated deeply with the audience, leaving many teary-eyed as they reminisced about home.

Jinan Ali, a guitarist from APU  and a member of the band, played during their performance of Fari Paree. Reflecting on the performance, he stated, "I hope Fasy is proud of us."

Ahmed Maahil, dancer from APU, was proud of the cultural evolution showcased during the event. "It’s a chance to showcase different parts of Maldivian culture and how it's changing—especially music, from Bollywood-style to rap. It also brought together students from different universities, which was an incredible opportunity to learn and grow."

Ali Gais, President of the Maldivian Students' Association of APU and performer, summed it up perfectly: "Most of us are living away from our families and friends. These events give us the feeling of being back home again—it’s almost like creating a home away from home."

Performing outside the Maldives for the first time was a special experience for him. "It was an extraordinary feeling getting to show my culture to other communities here," he explained.

Even audience members felt the impact. Sabhaan Mohamed from IMU University noted, "Maldivians playing iconic Maldivian songs that we all love to hear was very nice to see. All the performances were top notch and the MSA community along with the other university students that were involved did an amazing job."

From high-energy Boduberu drumming, dances to heartfelt solo performances and a grand fashion show, every segment was a testament to the pride and passion that fueled the night.

Yumna, singer from the University of Cyberjaya, captured its essence:
"Being part of such a vibrant multi-university event was truly an honor, and it felt amazing to celebrate our culture so far from home."

With whispers of an even bigger edition next year, Maldivian Eve has cemented itself as a cultural beacon, ensuring Maldivian heritage is celebrated through song, dance, story telling and shared experiences. Year after year, Maldivians in Malaysia won’t just reminisce about home—they will live it.