The Maldives is currently lacking in a sense of national unity and patriotism, says former minister Abdulla Kmaaludheen.

Kamaaludheen said this during an interview RaajjeTV, adding that the most important facets of being Maldivian has historically been ethnicity and religion.

However, Kamaaludheen said that the belief in these facets have eroded in the past years and that the ‘manner in which we treat each other’ has become drastically different.

Kamaaludheen said that this sense of patriotism can only be regained by working together and building communities through proper education and awareness.

In this regard, Kamaaludheen said that individuals must put the interests of their peers and the community ahead of personal political leanings.

The former minister said that encouraging national unity must be made a priority.