The Maldives marked National Day with a ceremony celebrating excellence and service, as President Dr Mohamed Muizzu conferred the nation’s highest civilian honours on individuals and one corporate entity for their significant contributions to intellectual, cultural, and civic life.

Held on the historic island of Utheemu in Haa Alifu Atoll, the event served as the centrepiece of the official National Day celebrations.

Organised under the oversight of the National Awards Committee, the ceremony reflected the administration’s commitment to recognising achievement across diverse fields.

The National Award of Honour, the Maldives’ most prestigious civilian distinction, was presented to three recipients:

Sheikh Ismail Mohamed, for his lifelong dedication to Islamic education and religious service.

Mohamed Mauroof Jameel, for his pioneering contributions to construction and architecture.

The late Mohamed Majid, posthumously recognised for his enduring impact on Maldivian performing arts and cultural heritage.

A further nine individuals and one company received the National Award of Recognition for notable achievements in areas spanning language, literature, public health, social service, technology, and commerce.

Among them were Husna Fahmy, honoured for her work in Dhivehi language and literature; Izzath Ahmed Nizar, for his contributions to Dhivehi poetry; and Abdul Azeez Hameed and Amira Sulaiman, recognised for their work in public health and traditional medicine, respectively.

Social and civic contributions were acknowledged with awards to Fathimath Ibrahim for advocacy in disability services, and Ahmed Waheed Ali for leadership in community mobilisation.

Corporate recognition went to Ooredoo Maldives Public Limited Company for advancing telecommunications and commerce, while Aleemuddeen, Mohamed Jailam, and Zahiyya Mohamed were commended for achievements in entrepreneurship, software innovation, and women’s advancement in underrepresented fields.

The ceremony also included two special honours.

The Presidential Honour for Distinguished Service to the Nation of Maldives was collectively awarded to the people of Utheemu, in recognition of their historic role and enduring contributions.

Additionally, Adam Abdul Rahman received the Order of the Dignified Rule of the Dhiyamigili Dynasty (ODRDD) for more than 40 years of dedicated government service.

The event underscored National Day as both a moment of historical reflection and a celebration of civic excellence, honouring individuals and communities shaping the nation’s future.