President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has bestowed a special honor upon the people of Utheem island of Haa Alif Atoll, for their distinguished service to Maldivian nationalism.

According to the President's Office, the presidential honor was conferred in recognition of the role played by the people of Utheem island in maintaining the Utheem Palace and the importance they have given to the task.

It also marks the current government's appreciation of their efforts and acknowledges that the Utheem Palace has been preserved for about 500 years under the care of the beloved people of Utheem.

Utheem Palace, the ancestral home of Al-Sultan Al-Ghazi Muhammad Thakurufaanu Al-Auzam (Utheemu Mahaaradhun), holds immense historical and cultural significance as one of the Maldives’ most treasured national heritage sites. It was the residence of the revered national hero prior to his ascension to the throne and remains a powerful symbol of Maldivian nationalism and independence.

For centuries, more than 450 years, and arguably over 500 years when including the era of Utheem Bodu Thakurufaanu, the people of Utheem have prioritized the preservation and protection of the palace and its associated historical artifacts. Their steadfast commitment has been passed down through generations, long before any formal government support was available.

Historically, the care and maintenance of Utheem Palace were undertaken entirely by the island’s residents, without remuneration. The palace has been revered across the Maldives since ancient times, and various traditional benefits were once allocated for its upkeep. Yet, it was the dedication of the Utheem community that ensured its preservation.

This reverence is evident in the meticulous care given to the site. The interior of the palace is always covered with fine white sand, sourced from the beach, sifted through a rice strainer to remove any debris, and carefully spread by hand. The outer courtyard is maintained with clean coral sand, and women of Utheem sweep the area each day, moving backward to ensure not even a single footprint mars the grounds. Out of respect, islanders avoid walking through the palace area, and fishermen purposely use alternate routes to avoid bringing fish or blood near the site.

According to the President’s Office, for nearly two decades, no formal government assistance was provided for the maintenance of the palace. However, that has since changed. The government now funds a paid caretaker and maintenance staff, and all repairs and upkeep are carried out with state support. Additional financial and resource allocations have also been made to ensure the continued preservation of this national treasure.

The President’s Office emphasized that, thanks to both community stewardship and renewed government support, the standard of maintenance and protection of Utheem Palace remains exceptionally high.