'Kashima' Ahmed Shakir Conferred ODRDD
15 އޯގަސްޓު 2026 | ހޮނިހިރު 09:34Al-Ustadh Ahmed Shakir is a distinguished figure who has served the state for over 41 years, making significant contributions and achieving notable success in the fields of history, literature, and performing arts. A former Member of Parliament, Shakir currently serves as a member of the "Iswaru" Council of Dhivehi National Heritage and chairs the National Awards Committee.
The President has conferred the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzudheen upon Al-Usthadh Kashima Ahmed Shakir. | Presidents Office
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has conferred the Dignified Rule of the Dhiyamigili Dynasty (ODRDD) upon Al-Usthadh Ahmed Shakir of Kashima, Maafannu.
This honor was conferred upon Shakir during the official ceremony held on Saturday in Ha. Utheemu to mark the occasion of National Day 2026.
Kashima Ahmed Shakir began his career in the Maldivian civil service on July 30, 1969. Over a distinguished career spanning more than 41 years of continuous service, he held several high-ranking positions, including Legal Counsel and Shipping Master at the Ministry of Transport and Shipping, as well as Director of Administration and Director General. Additionally, he served as the Executive Director of the National Centre for Linguistic and Historical Research.
Furthermore, after leaving public service, he taught at Villa College for over 12 years, where he also served as a Senior Curriculum Developer. Kashima Ahmed Shakir also served as a Member of Parliament for Male' Atoll in both the People's Majlis and the Special Majlis.
Kashima Shakir, who entered the world of Maldivian literature through his service at the Government Press, was a celebrated artist who gained immense popularity in the fields of performing arts and stage drama. His contributions spanned from the Majeediyya School Golden Jubilee performances to the iconic Olympians shows, and he further solidified his legacy by founding the Cultural and Dramatic Society (CDS), where he presented shows for a decade. As a program producer at Television Maldives, he authored screenplays for numerous acclaimed teledramas and films, including Ghaazee Bandaarain, Dhon Hiyala aai Alifulhu, and Tharaaganduge Kashigandu. Beyond his writing, he played a pivotal role in the industry by mentoring and training aspiring actors.
Kashima Ahmed Shakir continues to provide distinguished service in the fields of Maldivian historical research and literature. His notable contributions include the 640-page volume titled "Maldives in the Twentieth Century," along with five additional volumes in the same series. Furthermore, he has authored "The Spread of Islamic Light in the Maldives," "The Judicial System of the Maldives," and "The History of Maldivian Currency." His extensive body of work also encompasses historical accounts of state institutions and biographies of prominent Maldivian figures.
Al-Ustaz Ahmed Shakir has attained a Master of Sharia at the age of 69. Throughout his distinguished career, he has been honored with the National Award of Recognition in the fields of performing arts and public speaking, the Silver Pen of Journalism, and the National Award of Honor for his contributions to historical literature. He was also a recipient of the Maldives Academy of Language’s "Hassan Tajuddin Award" and the prestigious Sharjah International Narrators Forum Award in 2025. Al-Ustaz Kashima Ahmed Shakir continues to serve the nation as the Lead for Maldivian History on the Dhivehi Qaumiyyathuge Isvaru, established by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Additionally, he currently serves as the Chairperson of the National Awards Committee appointed by the President.
