Minister of Home Affairs Sheikh Imran Abdulla has stated that criticism of religion to create doubt about Islam within the youth, and violent extremism in the name of religion needs to be addressed before patriotism can be revitalized within the Maldives.

While speaking at last night's National Day ceremony, the minister noted that President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's forward-thinking on the matter will be essential in resolving this issue.

The minister took the opportunity during the ceremony to request the Maldivian public to support the president and the government in tackling the matter.

During his speech, he highlighted that revitalizing patriotism is the duty of every Maldivian and that the celebration of National Day should be an occasion to redetermine to spread patriotism to oncoming generations.

He further added Maldivian nationalism is based on the Islamic faith, Maldivian traditions, culture, and the Dhivehi language and that revitalizing the aforementioned plays a significant role in revitalizing nationalism.

He further highlighted that the current modern problems of today's world need to be addressed in a contemporary manner.

The minister also noted the prioritization of National Day by the current administration, evident by the awarding of the National Award of Honour and National Award of Recognition as part of this year's National Day ceremony.