During a heartfelt address to the Maldivian community in Malaysia, His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu called on Maldivian students studying abroad to remain committed to Islamic values and to preserve the cultural and national identity that defines the Maldivian people. The event took place as part of the President’s official visit to Malaysia and was attended by numerous students, families, and dignitaries.
In his remarks, President Dr Muizzu emphasized the importance of staying connected to one’s religious beliefs and national roots, particularly for youth living far from home. “There is no lasting happiness outside of Islam and the values we hold as a Muslim nation,” the President said, urging students to maintain their religious responsibilities while pursuing education overseas.
The President also highlighted the vital role of education in national development. He encouraged Maldivian students to strive for academic excellence, noting that their achievements reflect positively not only on themselves but also on their families and the entire country. “Education is not just a personal journey, it is a contribution to the collective future of the Maldives,” he said.
Reaffirming the government’s responsibility to support all citizens equally, regardless of where they reside, President Dr Muizzu announced several new initiatives to improve services for Maldivians abroad. As part of these efforts, he officially inaugurated the issuance of Maldivian identity cards and e-passports in Malaysia. These services, now available through the Maldivian Embassy, are intended to make official documentation more accessible to Maldivians residing in the country.
Additionally, the President inaugurated the Maldivian Students’ Association in Malaysia, an initiative aimed at fostering unity, mutual support, and opportunities for Maldivian students studying there. To support the association’s activities, the government will deposit USD 3,000 annually in Malaysian ringgits. This initiative mirrors a similar commitment the President made earlier this year during a visit to the United Kingdom, where the government pledged financial support to the Maldivian Student Association established there.
Speaking on the broader responsibilities of the state, President Dr Muizzu stated that consular services would be further expanded and prioritized in the national budget for 2026. He noted that Malaysia is currently home to the largest Maldivian community outside the country and stressed the importance of ensuring that the embassy’s services match the needs of this growing population.
Former President Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan, his spouse Madam Ilham Hussain, members of the Maldivian delegation, and dozens of Maldivian families and students attended the gathering. The President welcomed their concerns and suggestions, assuring them that communication channels with the government would remain open through both the embassy and direct correspondence.
“As your President, I consider it my duty to serve every Maldivian equally, whether they live in the Maldives or abroad,” he said. “No matter where you are, your rights, your identity, and your value as a citizen remain unchanged.”
President Dr Muizzu concluded his address by encouraging the Maldivian community in Malaysia to strengthen their bonds with each other, uphold their shared heritage, and continue contributing to the nation’s progress from wherever they are in the world.
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