The Emir of Sharjah, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, has conferred a special honour on Uz Kashima Ahmed Shakir, a member of the Maldives’ Nationhood Council, recognising his contributions to Maldivian history and national heritage.

The award was presented at the Sharjah International Narrators Forum 2025, organised by the Sharjah Institute of Heritage under the Emir’s patronage. The honour recognises individuals acknowledged by their Governments as custodians of cultural heritage. Uz Shakir, noted for landmark works on Maldivian history and biographies, has also played a leading role in initiatives to strengthen heritage research at national level.

As a historian at the Nationhood Council, Uz Shakir has played a pivotal role in revitalising Maldivian nationalism. He has been closely involved in the work of the National Institute for Maldivian Heritage Research, established under the current Administration, where he contributes to training future researchers.

At the forum, Uz Shakir delivered presentations on Maldivian history and was interviewed by Sharjah media, with university students attending his sessions to examine his proposals. Celebrating its silver-jubilee edition, the forum brought together over 120 storytellers, researchers and cultural practitioners from 37 countries for five days of exhibitions, performances and workshops.