A vibrant celebration of storytelling and cultural heritage is taking place in Sharjah, where the Maldives has been honoured as the country of focus at the 25th edition of the Sharjah International Narrator Forum (SINF). The event, inaugurated on 22 September 2025 under the theme “Tales of Travellers”, runs until 26 September and brings together more than 120 narrators, researchers, and cultural practitioners from 37 countries.
Representing the Maldives at the opening ceremony, Minister of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage Adam Naseer Ibrahim attended as guest of honour. In his keynote remarks, he reflected on the historic ties between the Maldivian and Arabic alphabets, while highlighting the Government’s ongoing commitment to cultural preservation. The Minister was accompanied by Uz “Kashima” Ahmed Shakir and Maryam Isha Azeez of the Nationhood Council.
The Maldivian delegation also engaged in forum activities showcasing global advances in cultural heritage management. These included modern technologies and innovative approaches for presenting national culture, providing valuable insights for strengthening local preservation efforts.
One of the most memorable moments of the forum was the launch of a children’s story in Arabic about how the Maldives embraced Islam. Authored by Nora Hayyal and published by the Sharjah Heritage Institute, the book, titled “Maaldeefiyan Jazeerathu Noor”, was presented to Minister Adam Naseer during the event. In a touching coincidence, Nora revealed that her birthday falls on the very day the Maldives embraced Islam centuries ago. The presentation of the book took place on that very anniversary, making the occasion especially meaningful for both the author and the Maldivian delegation. Minister Adam Naseer expressed gratitude for Nora’s work, which he described as a valuable contribution to preserving Maldivian history, and offered her a Maldivian cultural gift as a token of appreciation. Nora has also released an English edition of the book, widening its reach to international audiences.
The silver jubilee edition of SINF was inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, at the Centre for International Cultural Heritage Organisations in University City, Sharjah. The ceremony began with verses from the Holy Quran, followed by a keynote speech from Dr. Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIH). Dr. Al Musallam commended the forum’s 25-year journey, praising its impact in safeguarding folk knowledge and highlighting Sharjah’s role as a global hub for cultural heritage and storytelling under the visionary leadership of the Ruler of Sharjah.
This year’s programme features 25 specialised workshops in oral and visual narration, along with the launch of 40 publications, including Travel Literature in the Arab World and the series Eyes of Journeys. Participants also enjoy three major exhibitions: “Around the World” by Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr, a collection of works by Meera Al Qasim, and a heritage exhibition honouring the legendary traveller Ibn Battuta.
A commemorative film was screened during the opening, documenting SINF’s transformation from a local Emirati initiative into an international platform recognised by UNESCO. His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan also honoured Mohammed Ahmed Al Murr as the Honorary Personality of the Forum and Dr. Claudia Maria as the Juridical Personality, alongside tributes to leading Emirati narrators.
Countries represented at this year’s forum include the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Bahrain, Yemen, Comoros, Iraq, Egypt, Syria, Jordan, Palestine, Lebanon, Algeria, Tunisia, Sudan, Morocco, Mauritania, Macedonia, Ireland, Italy, Germany, the UK, China, France, Turkey, Spain, Japan, Maldives, Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Senegal, Kenya, and Malaysia. Academic institutions such as the University of Sharjah, University of Turin, Zhejiang University, and Egypt’s Higher Institute of Folk Arts are also actively involved, alongside Sharjah Museums Authority and Sharjah Libraries.
In his address, Dr. Al Musallam described the forum as a powerful reminder of the shared human experience, noting that storytelling transcends borders and connects communities. With the Maldives at the centre of this year’s celebrations, the forum not only highlights the nation’s cultural identity but also strengthens its presence on the international stage as a destination with deep history, heritage, and traditions that enrich the global community.
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