Gov't designates annual National Respect Day as part of five-year initiative

The Cabinet on Tuesday decided to implement a five-year nationwide initiative to promote respect and designate one day each year as National Respect Day, to be commemorated at the national level.

The President’s Office announced the decisions following discussions on a paper submitted by the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage at the Cabinet meeting held on 6 September.

According to the President’s Office, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu aims to revitalise the noble values and good character long upheld in Maldivian society. The initiative will be implemented under the theme, “Ikhthiraam ge Ufaa – Mujthamau ge Nafaa” (The Joy of Respect – The Benefit to Society).

A nine-member committee comprising individuals with relevant expertise will be formed to oversee and guide the implementation of the initiative. The committee will include representatives from the following ministries, in addition to PSM:

• Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage  

• Ministry of Defence and National Service  

• Ministry of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology  

• Ministry of Finance and Public Enterprises  

• Ministry of Education, Higher Education and Skills Development  

• Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Endowments  

• Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Sports and Fitness  

The Government has also decided to designate one day each year as National Respect Day, which will serve as the official inauguration of the five-year initiative.

The announcement comes amid growing public concern over declining social values and a perceived erosion of mutual respect, with the initiative expected to address these issues.