Graffiti on historic Usgekolhu prompts police investigation and ministry action under heritage law

The Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage has reported a case of graffiti and vandalism at the Usgekolhu Palace, the only surviving structure of the former Royal Palace complex (Ethere Koilu) in Male' city.

The ministry said it is working closely with the Maldives Police Service to identify those responsible. It stated that strict action will be taken under Law No. 2019/12; Cultural Heritage Act of Maldives against anyone found guilty of damaging heritage property.

At the same time, the ministry has formally requested the Male' City Council to transfer the keys and management of Usgekolhu and its surrounding area to the ministry for the ongoing heritage development project. However, the ministry noted that the council has not yet handed over the property.

Usgekolhu was built in 1903-1904 AD during the reign of Sultan Mohamed Imaduddeen VI, and is now more than a century old. It is the sole remaining building of the ancient palace complex and served as the first National Museum of the Maldives, inaugurated 74 years ago under Prime Minister Mohamed Amin Didi.

The ministry noted that damage to such historic sites could severely affect their cultural value and cause irreparable loss. It said work has now begun to bring all matters of protection and maintenance of Usgekolhu under its direct authority.

Graffiti painting has become common across Male', with walls and narrow streets frequently marked by gang symbols and slogans containing offensive language. The Police Gang Crime Prevention Department and the Male' City Council are jointly conducting clean‑up operations to remove graffiti from various areas of the city.