Minister of Arts, Culture and Heritage, Heena Waleed, has said that a nationwide programme is underway to train ten heritage custodians from each island to help preserve and promote the Maldives’ history and culture.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the President’s Office, the Minister outlined progress on the National Project for Oral History Collection, an initiative aimed at documenting and passing on historical and cultural knowledge to future generations.

She said the project focuses on capturing oral histories alongside written records, including personal accounts and community memories. The work is being carried out in collaboration with island councils, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and members of the public, with an emphasis on documenting lived experiences linked to Maldivian heritage.

The initiative will compile information on key events, traditional ways of life and cultural practices from across the country, creating a structured record of the nation’s heritage.

The Minister noted that individuals selected from each island are being trained to undertake this work and will serve as custodians responsible for documenting and safeguarding cultural and historical knowledge within their communities.

She also highlighted a separate national initiative to develop heritage custodians, focused on identifying, preserving and sustaining the historical and cultural assets of islands nationwide.

Those trained under these programmes will work closely with the Ministry, supporting ongoing efforts to protect and promote the Maldives’ cultural heritage.