President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has conveyed his deepest condolences to the family of the late Habeeba Hussain Habeeb, recipient of the Order of the Dignified Rule of Dhiyamigili Dynasty (ODRDD).
The President described her demise as a great loss to the nation.
Speaking with the bereaved family, the President noted her long service to the government and the country, including her contributions to the Dhivehi language, literature, and history.
The late Habeeba Hussain Habeeb passed away at the age of 92, while undergoing medical treatment at ADK Hospital.
The late Habeeba Hussain Habeeb’s career started at Madhrasathul Saniyya as the "Mu’avina." She continued to serve as a teacher and special teacher at the school before joining the Ministry of External Affairs as a secretary. She also served as the secretary of the department for the World Health Organization.
The late Habeeba Hussain Habeeb served most of her career at the National Library. During her 29 years of service at the library, she held various positions, including librarian, deputy director, director, director general, assistant executive director, and executive director. She also served as a Member of Parliament appointed by the President.
She also served as a member of the History Committee and Advisory Committee of the Maldives Center for Historical and Linguistic Research. In addition to her contributions to the book titled "Qarunu," she also hosted radio programmes on history and culture for students.
The late Habeeba Hussain Habeeb studied in Hyderabad, India, and Sri Lanka. She took an interest in history in 1955 as a history teacher at Majeediyya School and Aminiya School.
She served the government for over 49 years.
Her professional career as a writer started in 1954 with "Munnaaru News." Since then, she has contributed articles to numerous magazines, including "Viyafaari Miadhu," "Adhabee Shu’ooru," "Jinsu’latheef," "Huvandhuma," "Moonlight," "Amaazu," and "Hiyala." She has been a contributing writer for "Faiy’thoora" magazine since 1980.
Some of her historical works include the biography of Sultan Muhammad Thakurufaanu, titled "Muhammad Thakurufaanu the Great," and "Dhivehi Thaareekhah Avas Kalhi’eh." She also translated books titled "Islamic History 1" and "Islamic History 2." She is also revered for her work on folklore.
In 2007, the late Habeeba Hussain Habeeb was presented with the National Award of Honour in Dhivehi literature. She also received a special recognition award in 1981 for her contributions to the field of translation.
The late Habeeba Hussain Habeeb is also a recipient of the "Minivan 25" award and the "Noosverikamuge Ran Galan." She was conferred the Order of the Dignified Rule of Dhiyamigili Dynasty (ODRDD) in 2011.
