Pres. signs book of condolences opened in memory of late Habeeba Hussain Habeeb

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has signed the book of condolences opened in the memory of the late poet and renowned writer Habeeba Hussain Habeeb.

President Solih signed the book on Sunday afternoon.

In his message, President Solih stressed that Habeeba’s death is a loss to the nation, going on to shed light on her remarkable service record spanning over 49 years, which showed exemplary sincerity and devotion.

He also highlighted her outstanding services and significant contributions to develop the Dhivehi language, literature, and history.

Vice President Faisal Naseem also signed the book, earlier.

The book of condolences in memory of the late recipient of the Order of the Dignified Rule of Dhiyamigili Dynasty (ODRDD), was opened on November 28.

The book was opened with the joint efforts of the “Dhivehi Bahuge Academy” and the National Library.

Habeeba succumbed to complications from an illness while receiving treatment at ADK Hospital, on November 21.

She had been receiving treatment for the ailment for three months, before her passing at 92 years of age.

Habeeba was an outstanding woman of extraordinary caliber who provided long years of service to the country, to the Maldivian language, its heritage and in other social areas.

She was born on 9 September 1930 and is the daughter of Hussain Habeeb and Ameera Shahima Shamsuddin.

A certified librarian, Habeeba was also a recipient of the President’s award Gold Pen, Presidential award for 25 years government service, Presidential Encouragement award for her dedicated service in translation work.

She was also an Advisory Member of the National Center for Linguistic and History Research.

Her many achievements include being listed as a noteworthy library director by Marquis Who's Who.

She is survived by her three children; Shafeea Zubair, Ibrahim Zubair and Shahida Zubair.

Following her passing, President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih also conveyed his deepest condolences to her grieving family.

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 Honor 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.