President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has inaugurated the historic Vaahaka Vau (Story Forest), developed within the grounds of the Kandhuvalu Miskiy in HA. Utheemu.

The President was accompanied by First Lady Sajidha Mohamed at the ceremony held this afternoon as part of their visit to HA. Utheemu for the official commemorations of National Day.

Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef, Speaker of the People’s Majlis Honourable Abdul Raheem Abdulla, and Cabinet Ministers also attended the ceremony. Foreign diplomats, long-serving public servants of the State, and members of the public were also in attendance.

Following the inauguration, the President and First Lady, accompanied by the dignitaries, toured the Vaahaka Vau and experienced the historical journey presented throughout the site.

Developed within the natural woodland adjoining the Kandhuvalu Maskiy, a significant landmark in Maldivian history, the Vaahaka Vau is an immersive heritage park designed to bring to life the story of Bodu Thakurufaanu’s struggle for national independence. Through a series of interpretive displays depicting key historical scenes, the park takes visitors on a journey through this defining chapter of Maldivian history.

As visitors walk along the pathways of the Vaahaka Vau, key events from Bodu Thakurufaanu’s national struggle unfold chronologically amid the surrounding greenery. The historical journey begins with the occupation of Malé in 1558 and continues through the construction of Kalhuohfummi in HA. Baarah, culminating in the historic victory achieved in 1573. The park has been thoughtfully designed to provide an integrated experience of art, natural beauty and history.

The initiative is being undertaken by the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Heritage, reflecting President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s emphasis on fostering national identity. It contributes to the Government’s policy to preserve and safeguard the legacy of Ghaazee Bandaarain while creating economic opportunities through the country’s cultural heritage.

Under the “Preservation of the Legacy of Ghaazee Bandaarain and Heritage-Based Income Generation Project”, the Government aims to establish Utheemu as a major centre for cultural tourism and Maldivian national history.