President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has called on the public "to put aside all squabbles and rivalries", in his message to mark the beginning of the new Islamic Year 1443.

In a written message, the president extended felicitations on the joyful occasion 'to all Maldivian citizens, leaders of all Islamic nations, and all Muslim kith and kin throughout the world'.

In the message, President Solih spoke about the history behind creation of the Hijri Calendar – he stated that Prophet Mohammed PBUH’s journey from Mecca to Medina had initiated a sacred Islamic realm that symbolized patience, empathy and kindness.

The president further encouraged all Muslims to become more educated on the Prophet’s endeavors "to personify his sacrosanct virtues of goodwill and close familial bonds", adding that Muslims were able "to become a dynamic force within the world because of the embodying of these holy virtues in our communities".

Further calling on the public "to put aside all squabbles and rivalries and to come together in the spirit of blessed kinship and to work towards a society based on Muslim moralities", he urged to let go of antagonistic thoughts. President Solih said that Muslims are duty-bound to "defend and support each other with integrity and compassion" as well as to create a community where Islamic tenets are safeguarded.

President Solih ended the message with prayer, to bestow his blessings upon the nation and all Muslims around the world, as well as that the following year will bring good news, prosperity and fortuity to all Muslims.

The Islamic New Year is a public holiday in the Maldives.