President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that every citizen must take pride in protecting the sovereignty and independence of the Maldives and in passing it on to future generations.

Speaking on the occasion of Victory Day, the President emphasised that safeguarding the nation is not the sole responsibility of security forces, but a collective duty shared by every Maldivian. He said that in an increasingly globalised world, there are many ways through which a country’s independence can be undermined, but such threats can be prevented if every citizen possesses a strong sense of national pride and unity.

The President also reflected on the heroes who sacrificed their lives to defend the country’s independence, saying their memory will endure for as long as the nation exists. He noted that the Maldivian people are united through the holy religion of Islam, and that this unity and faith should be preserved and instilled in future generations.

Highlighting that a nation’s true strength lies in its people, President Dr Muizzu said that while governments can develop infrastructure, national progress holds little meaning unless citizens adopt a mindset dedicated to the country. He urged every individual to place the interests of the nation above personal gain.

Victory Day is observed each year in the Maldives to remember the nation’s victory over the terrorist attack that took place on 3 November 1988. The day remains a powerful reminder of national unity and the sacrifices made to safeguard the Maldives.