All ABout Maldives
Maldives Weather
The climate in the Maldives is warm through out the year, determined by the monsoons. However, being on the equator, the monsoons are calm and not as defined as in the neighboring countries. Of the two monsoons, the southwest monsoon from May to October brings some rain and wind. The northeast monsoon from November to April is the dry season with very little rain and wind. The temperature varies little with an annual average daily maximum of 30.4º degrees Celsius and a minimum of 25.9º degrees Celsius. The annual rainfall stood at just over 1,900 millimeters in 1996. In the same year, the country, with the equator running through it, had over 2,800 hours of sunshine, an average of about 8 hours a day.
Maldives Culture
Though performances of traditional music and dance are not everyday events, there is a contemporary Divehi culture which is strong and adaptive, despite foreign influences which range from Hindi movies and Oriental martial arts to Michael Jackson and Moslem fundamentalism. Western fashions, pop music and videos are visible in the capital, but on public occasions, like the beginning and end of Ramadan, the celebrations always have a distinctly Maldivian touch.
A bodu beru means a big drum, and gives its name to the best known form of traditional music and dance. It's what tourist resorts put on for a local culture night, and it can be quite sophisticated and compelling. Dancers begin with a slow, nonchalant swaying and swinging of the arms, and become more animated as the tempo increases, finishing in a rhythmic frenzy. There are four to six drummers in an ensemble, and the sound has strong African influences. Contemporary local rock bands often perform at resorts where they do credible covers of the usual old favorites. Performing for a local audience they may incorporate elements of bodu beru in their music, with lots of percussion and extended drum solos. Cassettes from local bands are sold in Malé music shops.
Fish and rice are the staple foods of Maldivians with meat and chicken eaten only on special occasions. National dishes include fried fish, fish curry and fish soup. Areca nut (an oval nut chewed with betel leaf, cloves and lime) is the equivalent of an after-dinner mint. Alcohol is only available in tourist resorts. The local brew is raa, a sweet and delicious toddy tapped from the crown of the palm trunk. Apart from coconuts, there are very few fruits and vegetables growno
the islands, so most of the food served at tourist resorts is imported.
Maldives Religion
Islam is the focus of the Maldivian life in every respect, all being Sunni Muslims. Prayers are conducted five times a day in all mosques on every inhabited island. The golden dome of the Islamic centre dominates the skyline of Male’ whether first viewed by air or from water. A result of the commitment of President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s government to uphold and strengthen the character of the nation, this imposing mosque was inaugurated in 1984.
The well planned, comfortable interior of the centre is often utilized for important official occasions in addition to regular meetings. Dark woodcarvings depict the history of the religion and serve as inspiration for spiritual development. For the artist they are a work of beauty. From inside the mosque, worshipers can see both the spiraling communication tower of the Postal building and the graceful minaret of the Islamic Centre. It is a startling contrast of tradition and technology.
The night view of the mosque is breathtaking. In the quite night, visitors may stand at the bottom of the impressive steps, look upwards to what is said to be one of the most beautiful mosques in Asia and find a moment for reflection.
Belonging to the Sunnis, the largest and most traditional Islamic sect, the Maldivians believe that "There is no God but Allah", confident that he is one, supreme and all-powerful. They also believe that "Muhammad" is the messenger of Allah.
All Maldivians believe in an afterlife and a final judgment that decides whether they go to hell or heaven. Only right conduct can assure the latter, which entails keeping to the five pillars of the religion, to repeat the creed "There is no God but Allah, and Muhammad is the prophet of Allah", to say prayers five times a day (at dawn, midday, mid-afternoon, sunset and after darkness), to give alms to the poor, to make a pilgrimage to Mecca if possible at least once in a lifetime, and to fast during the holy month of Ramadan.
Maldives Education
The traditional system of education that has evolved for centuries composed of three types of institution: Kiyavaage, Makthab, and Madharsaa. Madharsaa usually expanded the curriculum to include more subjects such as literacy skills. This system deserves credit for the high (93% in 1986) literacy rate of The Maldives. Most of the Makthabs teach the young to read and write Dhivehi and Arabic as well as simple arithmetic. Continuous research in upgrading the curriculum goes on. A new national curriculum for primary and middle schools was designed and introduced in 1984. This curriculum incorporate environmental studies, science, Dhivehi language, mathematics, English language, fine arts, physical education and calligraphy.
Students delving into textbooks due to shortage of qualified teachers, there is an on-going teacher training programme conducted under government auspices. President Gayoom has made improving the educational system a priority. He is dedicated to improving education standards, especially at primary and secondary levels to meet the increased manpower needs of the country, and to improve teacher training. New schools continue to be constructed and education expands into the health and sanitation fields as well as in most areas of social development.
As it is common in other developing nations, students travel abroad for a higher level of education in college or university. The Maldivian government is making every effort to upgrade the educational standards, and the Maldives' government maintains education as a priority.
Maldives Economy
The Maldivian Economy has seen unprecedented growth during the last two to three decades. Traditionally dependant on fisheries, the advent of tourism in 1972 has tilted the economy in increasingly in favor of the new industry. In spite of this structural transformation, the fisheries sector has seen increased modernization while maintaining the traditional aspects of the industry that has sustained is for so long.
Maldives is one of the few countries among the Least Developed Countries that have demonstrated the capacity to lay the foundations of a sustainable development process. The fact that level of poverty found in other developing countries is virtually absent in the Maldives testifies that the benefits of growth have been well distributed. In 1999 the annual growth rate was registered at 8.5%, brining the GDP to US$ 267 million. GDP per capita for the year is USD 962. The annual average rate of growth has been maintained above the 8% mark since 1985.
Maldives Environment
White sandy beaches sparkling in the sun alongside crystal clear lagoons would be an idyllic place to spend a perfect holiday. While this is true in most aspects, the degree of fragility of our environment is gaining much attention within national and international levels.
The fragile marine and terrestrial environment including the reefs and bio-diversity would be greatly affected unless careful management of the environment is done. Our beauty and natural resources are strongly linked with economic development of the country. Such awareness has raised many concerns and the Government is taking extensive measures towards protecting the environment.
In 1989 the first National Environmental Action Plan was developed forming a base for future actions to prevent environmental hazards. Over exploitation of natural resources are restricted. For example coral mining is banned in certain areas. Killing of turtles, which is under threat of extinction, is banned and visitors are discouraged from buying objects made from turtle shell. The entire capital island is enclosed with sea walls, a protection measure to reduce the impending hazards of climatic change and sea level rise. Projects on regeneration of ecosystems are conducted in some areas and a "Million Tree Programme" was initiated by the President of Maldives, His Excellency Mr. Maumoon Abdul Gayoom in 1996. Small nurseries are established in atolls to spread the programme countrywide and many trees are planted all over the country in an effort to "greening the environment". Sport fishing practiced by some islands is now confined to tag and release method.
In 1997 many activities were carried out under the theme "Independent Maldives, Clean Maldives," where cleaning and waste collecting activities were carried out nation wide. The spirit still continues in an effort to keep our environment clean. Many resort islands retain the natural vegetation providing an environmentally sound atmosphere in the island. While effective waste management would completely take shape after few years, efforts are made to reduce risks of environmental health problems. The concept of recycling is progressively taking shape and composting is gradually introduced in agriculture.
Maldives proudly hosted a ministerial level meeting, Small State Conference on Sea Level Rise in 1989 calling for many actions incorporated in the Male’ Declaration. Also, the Maldives participated in the Second World Climatic Conference in 1990 and the Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. In 1994 Maldives participated in the Global Conference on the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States and in 1997 participated in the Kyoto Conference. Also in 1997 the 13th Intergovernmental Panel on Climatic Change was held in the Maldives. Apart from these conferences, the Government has attended small preparatory meetings on environment. The Maldives’ approach to environmental issues as with many other small states, stays in harmony with the concept "Think globally and act locally".
Maldives Festival
Ramadhan
Ramadhan is the ninth month in the Moslem calendar, a month during which moslems mark 30 days of fasting. The working hours are altered for the month, the government offices being opened from 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM and the private sector also closing for the day at 3:00 in the afternoon.
Eid-ul Al`h`aa
Eid-ul Al`h`aa falls on the 10th day of Zul Hijja in the Islamic Calendar. While those who can afford are at pilgrimage at the holy Ka`aba in Mecca, for those who stay behind it is a time for celebrations and feasting.
This is the longest holiday during the year and people make preparations well in advance to visit their friends and relatives in other islands. The holiday period is between five to seven days. All over the Maldives the period is one of celebrations. Traditional sports, music and dance go hand in hand with modern sports and music. The young, old, male and female take part in the celebrations.
Prophets Birthday
As with all moslems, Maldivians celebrate the Prophet's birthday. The Prophet's birthday is the 12th day of Rabee-ul Awwal in the Islamic Calendar. Families invite one another to their homes to share the special dishes prepared for the day.
Kuda Eid
Kuda Eid is the first day of the month of Shawwal in the Islamic Calendar. This follows the end of Ramadhan and it is a period of feasting. Early in the morning men and women gather at the mosque to perform prayer. At each house feasting is prepared and family, friends and neighbors are invited. This is also a period of charity, when families offer Zakath in those less fortunate themselves. Kuda Eid is celebrated for the period of three days during which public holiday period is observed.
Independence Day
Independence Day is celebrated on the 26th July. The highlight of the day is the official celebrations held in the evening at the Republic Square. The event begins with a march past by the National Security Service and the National cadet corps. This is followed by drills, traditional dances and modern drills performed by hundreds of school children in colorful attire. These events are interceded by the passing of floats and processions depicting traditional and modern themes.
Republic Day
On 11th November 1968 Maldives became Republic for the second time. The day is celebrated every year with parades and marches.
National Day
The National Day celebrates the great victory of Mohamed Thakurufaanu over the Portuguese in 1573. The National Day is celebrated on the 1st of Rabee-ul Awwal, the third month in the Islamic calendar.
Maldives Government
The Maldivian parliament, the Majilis or Citizens' Council, has 48 members. Male', which is the capital island, and each of the atolls have two representatives each, elected for five-year terms. All citizens over 21 years of age can vote. The president chooses the remaining eight parliamentary representatives, has the power to appoint or dismiss cabinet ministries and appoint all judges who administer justice under the broad tenets of Islam.
The Majlis considers candidates for the presidency for each five-year term, and makes nominations, which is put forward, so the vote is not so much an election as a national referendum - a strong vote of support for the president is seen as a show of loyalty to religious authorities, local political leaders and the country as a whole. In recent votes, the current president Mr. Gayoom has always received 90% support.
Local government of the 19 administrative atolls is in the hands of each atolhuverin, or atoll chief. The gazi is religious head of the atoll and joins the atoll chief in deciding legal matters. Each island also has its own chief, or kateeb, who is appointed by the atoll chief consultation with the Ministry of Atolls Administration.
Maldives Geography
The Maldives is an archipelago of about 1190 islands grouped into natural coral atolls.
One would expect the Indian Ocean, like any of the other oceans of the world to have its share of storms, waves and other phenomena related to large bodies of water. The Indian Ocean does fulfill this expectation till one begins to approach any of the coral atolls right in the middle of it.
An atoll is best visualized as a series of concentric layers. The outermost layer of the atoll is a strong reef. Composed of coral debris and living and living coral, this reef is a formidable barrier against rough seas. Once you gain access into the calm waters within, one is within the lagoon of the atoll proper.
The islands of the atoll follow the outer reef. Sometimes an occasional island juts up from inside the lagoon.
Each island has its own fringing reef. This adds to the protection. The water within this reef is often quite shallow. That aquamarine halo around the island in your picture postcard is this.
Even though the islands of the Maldives are well sheltered from oceanic waves, the ocean plays a major role in the climate of the country. It acts as a heat buffer, storing and giving up heat at a much slower rate than solid ground. Temperatures usually fluctuate between 23°C and maximum 32°C. There is always a cooling breeze blowing in from the sea.
The Maldives straddles the equator and lies outside the Indian Ocean cyclone belt.
Some people find the Maldivian climate monotonous. Length of the day never varies. Normally in June and July the southwest monsoon is said to bring rain. In reality, it can rain at any time.
Maldives Language
The language of the Maldives is Dhivehi, also written as "Dhivehi". It is related to an ancient form of Sinhala, a Sri Lankan language, but also contains some Arabic, Hindi and English words.
Historically speaking the early people spoke "Elu" a form of ancient Singhalese. The language had gone many transformations and the present day Dhivehi is written from left to right, probably to incorporate many Arabic words. Modern Thaana script was invented in the 16th century following the overthrow of Portuguese. The earliest Dhivehi is inscribed on copper plates known as the "Loamaafaanu". The script is written with letters and vowels separately on top or below the letters, depending on the sound.
Dhivehi is used equivocally in the administration of the country. Until the 1960s, Dhivehi was also the medium of teaching in al schools, but with the need for further education, Dhivehi medium syllabuses changed to English medium teaching. For this reason, English is widely understood, spoken and written by the locals.
English is widely spoken in Male', in the resorts, and by educated people through out the country. English is also spoken in Addu, the southernmost atoll, where the British employed many of the islanders on the air base for 20 years. On other islands especially outside the tourist zone, you'll be very lucky to find an adult who speaks anything other than Dhivehi.
Maldives Music & Dance
Bodu Beru
Bodu Beru is the most popular form of music and dance in the country, enjoyed by the young and old, men and women. There is a Bodu Beru troupe in almost every inhabited island and is regularly played at special functions and festivals.
The musical instruments used in Bodu Beru consist of three of four drums and a variety of percussion instruments. The drums are made from hollowed coconut woon and covered on both ends with manta ray skin or goat hide. A lead singer chants the lyrics and a chorus of 10 to 15 follows as they clap to the beat of the drums. The rhythm build as the song continues until it reaches a frenzied crescendo.
As the rhythm picks up, dancers come out from amongst the troupe swaying to the rhythm. As the beat becomes faster the dancers leap and jerk to the beat as if in a trance. Onlookers join in clapping and dancing. Old men, suddenly catch a stray rhythm and throw themselves into the arena. To wild applause from the crowd they gyrate and grimace in their dance, passing on to the young what they have learnt from their forefathers. According to some historians Bodu beru was introduced to the country in the early 19th century by African slaves. During the reign of Mueenuddeen I these slaves were liberated and sent to Feridhoo in Ari Atoll. It is believed that bodu beru spread out from there to become one of the most popular forms of entertainment in the country.
Thaara
Thaara also holds a special place in local entertainment. Two lines of men attired in white sit on the ground and sing beating hand drums while others dance between them. Thaara is believed to have been introduced from the Middle East in the seventeenth century. Today thaara is only played at national events.
Dhandijehun
Dhandijehun is another form of entertainment, which is popular throughout the country. This is mostly performed to celebrate festive events such as Eid and other national occasions.
Bandiyaa Jehun
Bandiyaa Jehun is a popular form of dance performed by young women. The women carrying metal water pots stand in two lines facing each. They sing and dance to melodious tunes while tapping the rhythm on the pots with rings worm on their fingers.
Maldives Art & Craft
The beautifully carved tombstones in some of the old cemeteries and the fine stone carving of the Hukuru Miskiy in Male' bear witness to the intricate skills of Maldivian stone carvers of the past. Maldivians are deft craftsmen producing beautifully crafted pieces mostly out of what is available locally. Although many of the skills are now a thing of the past several skills have been passed on from generation to generation and lives on even today.
The art of calligraphy has strong connections with Islam. Old and new mosques display beautifully penned versus from the Holy Quran. The Islamic Centre exhibits some of the finest samples of the work of modern calligraphers in the country. While many crafts have become obsolete, others have found new life with the advent of tourism. The production of ornaments from tortoise shells and black coral once valued by visitors has now ceased completely because of the growing awareness among the public on the need to preserve the environment.
Wooden Lacquer ware
Perhaps the most distinctive of the Maldivian handicrafts, these are almost exclusively produced in Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll. Liye Laajehun as it is called Dhivehi involves the process of shaping, and hollowing out pieces of wood to form beautifully crafted boxes, containers and ornamental objects. Made from local funa (Alexandrian laurel) which grows abundantly throughout the country, they come in various shapes and sizes; small pillboxes, vases of various sizes to round and oval plates with lids. These elegant pieces are lacquered in strands of red, black and yellow resin and delicately carved with flowing flowery patterns.
Mats
Beautiful reed mats are woven throughout the country, the most famous of which are those that are woven by women of Gadhdhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. Thundu Kunaa as they are known in Dhivehi ranges in size from that of a place mat to a full sized single mattress. The women of Gadhdhoo collect the reeds called haa from the nearby island of Fioari. They are dried in the sun and stained with natural dyes, the color varying from fawn to black. These mats with their intricate, abstract designs are woven on a handloom according to the imagination and skill of the weaver.
Maldives Tourism
The first tourist resort was opened in 1972. At present there are 87 resorts and a large number of cruise vessels that operate in the tourism industry. The number of tourist arrivals reached 429,700 in the year 2000 and is expected to grow by 8% during the year 2001. About 79% of tourists originated from Europe, mainly from Italy and Germany, United Kingdom, France and Switzerland.
However tourist arrivals from Asia is becoming increasingly important comprising 17 percent of all arrivals in the year. Japanese tourists continue to dominate the Asian market with 54% of the total arrivals from Asia in 1999.
The climate in the Maldives is warm through out the year, determined by the monsoons. However, being on the equator, the monsoons are calm and not as defined as in the neighboring countries. Of the two monsoons, the southwest monsoon from May to October brings some rain and wind. The northeast monsoon from November to April is the dry season with very little rain and wind. The temperature varies little with an annual average daily maximum of 30.4º degrees Celsius and a minimum of 25.9º degrees Celsius. The annual rainfall stood at just over 1,900 millimeters in 1996. In the same year, the country, with the equator running through it, had over 2,800 hours of sunshine, an average of about 8 hours a day.
Maldives Culture
Though performances of traditional music and dance are not everyday events, there is a contemporary Divehi culture which is strong and adaptive, despite foreign influences which range from Hindi movies and Oriental martial arts to Michael Jackson and Moslem fundamentalism. Western fashions, pop music and videos are visible in the capital, but on public occasions, like the beginning and end of Ramadan, the celebrations always have a distinctly Maldivian touch.
A bodu beru means a big drum, and gives its name to the best known form of traditional music and dance. It's what tourist resorts put on for a local culture night, and it can be quite sophisticated and compelling. Dancers begin with a slow, nonchalant swaying and swinging of the arms, and become more animated as the tempo increases, finishing in a rhythmic frenzy. There are four to six drummers in an ensemble, and the sound has strong African influences. Contemporary local rock bands often perform at resorts where they do credible covers of the usual old favorites. Performing for a local audience they may incorporate elements of bodu beru in their music, with lots of percussion and extended drum solos. Cassettes from local bands are sold in Malé music shops.
Fish and rice are the staple foods of Maldivians with meat and chicken eaten only on special occasions. National dishes include fried fish, fish curry and fish soup. Areca nut (an oval nut chewed with betel leaf, cloves and lime) is the equivalent of an after-dinner mint. Alcohol is only available in tourist resorts. The local brew is raa, a sweet and delicious toddy tapped from the crown of the palm trunk. Apart from coconuts, there are very few fruits and vegetables growno
the islands, so most of the food served at tourist resorts is imported.
Maldives Religion
Islam is the focus of the Maldivian life in every respect, all being Sunni Muslims. Prayers are conducted five times a day in all mosques on every inhabited island. The golden dome of the Islamic centre dominates the skyline of Male’ whether first viewed by air or from water. A result of the commitment of President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s government to uphold and strengthen the character of the nation, this imposing mosque was inaugurated in 1984.
The well planned, comfortable interior of the centre is often utilized for important official occasions in addition to regular meetings. Dark woodcarvings depict the history of the religion and serve as inspiration for spiritual development. For the artist they are a work of beauty. From inside the mosque, worshipers can see both the spiraling communication tower of the Postal building and the graceful minaret of the Islamic Centre. It is a startling contrast of tradition and technology.
The night view of the mosque is breathtaking. In the quite night, visitors may stand at the bottom of the impressive steps, look upwards to what is said to be one of the most beautiful mosques in Asia and find a moment for reflection.
Belonging to the Sunnis, the largest and most traditional Islamic sect, the Maldivians believe that "There is no God but Allah", confident that he is one, supreme and all-powerful. They also believe that "Muhammad" is the messenger of Allah.
All Maldivians believe in an afterlife and a final judgment that decides whether they go to hell or heaven. Only right conduct can assure the latter, which entails keeping to the five pillars of the religion, to repeat the creed "There is no God but Allah, and Muhammad is the prophet of Allah", to say prayers five times a day (at dawn, midday, mid-afternoon, sunset and after darkness), to give alms to the poor, to make a pilgrimage to Mecca if possible at least once in a lifetime, and to fast during the holy month of Ramadan.
Maldives Education
The traditional system of education that has evolved for centuries composed of three types of institution: Kiyavaage, Makthab, and Madharsaa. Madharsaa usually expanded the curriculum to include more subjects such as literacy skills. This system deserves credit for the high (93% in 1986) literacy rate of The Maldives. Most of the Makthabs teach the young to read and write Dhivehi and Arabic as well as simple arithmetic. Continuous research in upgrading the curriculum goes on. A new national curriculum for primary and middle schools was designed and introduced in 1984. This curriculum incorporate environmental studies, science, Dhivehi language, mathematics, English language, fine arts, physical education and calligraphy.
Students delving into textbooks due to shortage of qualified teachers, there is an on-going teacher training programme conducted under government auspices. President Gayoom has made improving the educational system a priority. He is dedicated to improving education standards, especially at primary and secondary levels to meet the increased manpower needs of the country, and to improve teacher training. New schools continue to be constructed and education expands into the health and sanitation fields as well as in most areas of social development.
As it is common in other developing nations, students travel abroad for a higher level of education in college or university. The Maldivian government is making every effort to upgrade the educational standards, and the Maldives' government maintains education as a priority.
Maldives Economy
The Maldivian Economy has seen unprecedented growth during the last two to three decades. Traditionally dependant on fisheries, the advent of tourism in 1972 has tilted the economy in increasingly in favor of the new industry. In spite of this structural transformation, the fisheries sector has seen increased modernization while maintaining the traditional aspects of the industry that has sustained is for so long.
Maldives is one of the few countries among the Least Developed Countries that have demonstrated the capacity to lay the foundations of a sustainable development process. The fact that level of poverty found in other developing countries is virtually absent in the Maldives testifies that the benefits of growth have been well distributed. In 1999 the annual growth rate was registered at 8.5%, brining the GDP to US$ 267 million. GDP per capita for the year is USD 962. The annual average rate of growth has been maintained above the 8% mark since 1985.
Maldives Environment
White sandy beaches sparkling in the sun alongside crystal clear lagoons would be an idyllic place to spend a perfect holiday. While this is true in most aspects, the degree of fragility of our environment is gaining much attention within national and international levels.
The fragile marine and terrestrial environment including the reefs and bio-diversity would be greatly affected unless careful management of the environment is done. Our beauty and natural resources are strongly linked with economic development of the country. Such awareness has raised many concerns and the Government is taking extensive measures towards protecting the environment.
In 1989 the first National Environmental Action Plan was developed forming a base for future actions to prevent environmental hazards. Over exploitation of natural resources are restricted. For example coral mining is banned in certain areas. Killing of turtles, which is under threat of extinction, is banned and visitors are discouraged from buying objects made from turtle shell. The entire capital island is enclosed with sea walls, a protection measure to reduce the impending hazards of climatic change and sea level rise. Projects on regeneration of ecosystems are conducted in some areas and a "Million Tree Programme" was initiated by the President of Maldives, His Excellency Mr. Maumoon Abdul Gayoom in 1996. Small nurseries are established in atolls to spread the programme countrywide and many trees are planted all over the country in an effort to "greening the environment". Sport fishing practiced by some islands is now confined to tag and release method.
In 1997 many activities were carried out under the theme "Independent Maldives, Clean Maldives," where cleaning and waste collecting activities were carried out nation wide. The spirit still continues in an effort to keep our environment clean. Many resort islands retain the natural vegetation providing an environmentally sound atmosphere in the island. While effective waste management would completely take shape after few years, efforts are made to reduce risks of environmental health problems. The concept of recycling is progressively taking shape and composting is gradually introduced in agriculture.
Maldives proudly hosted a ministerial level meeting, Small State Conference on Sea Level Rise in 1989 calling for many actions incorporated in the Male’ Declaration. Also, the Maldives participated in the Second World Climatic Conference in 1990 and the Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. In 1994 Maldives participated in the Global Conference on the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States and in 1997 participated in the Kyoto Conference. Also in 1997 the 13th Intergovernmental Panel on Climatic Change was held in the Maldives. Apart from these conferences, the Government has attended small preparatory meetings on environment. The Maldives’ approach to environmental issues as with many other small states, stays in harmony with the concept "Think globally and act locally".
Maldives Festival
Ramadhan
Ramadhan is the ninth month in the Moslem calendar, a month during which moslems mark 30 days of fasting. The working hours are altered for the month, the government offices being opened from 9:00 AM to 1:30 PM and the private sector also closing for the day at 3:00 in the afternoon.
Eid-ul Al`h`aa
Eid-ul Al`h`aa falls on the 10th day of Zul Hijja in the Islamic Calendar. While those who can afford are at pilgrimage at the holy Ka`aba in Mecca, for those who stay behind it is a time for celebrations and feasting.
This is the longest holiday during the year and people make preparations well in advance to visit their friends and relatives in other islands. The holiday period is between five to seven days. All over the Maldives the period is one of celebrations. Traditional sports, music and dance go hand in hand with modern sports and music. The young, old, male and female take part in the celebrations.
Prophets Birthday
As with all moslems, Maldivians celebrate the Prophet's birthday. The Prophet's birthday is the 12th day of Rabee-ul Awwal in the Islamic Calendar. Families invite one another to their homes to share the special dishes prepared for the day.
Kuda Eid
Kuda Eid is the first day of the month of Shawwal in the Islamic Calendar. This follows the end of Ramadhan and it is a period of feasting. Early in the morning men and women gather at the mosque to perform prayer. At each house feasting is prepared and family, friends and neighbors are invited. This is also a period of charity, when families offer Zakath in those less fortunate themselves. Kuda Eid is celebrated for the period of three days during which public holiday period is observed.
Independence Day
Independence Day is celebrated on the 26th July. The highlight of the day is the official celebrations held in the evening at the Republic Square. The event begins with a march past by the National Security Service and the National cadet corps. This is followed by drills, traditional dances and modern drills performed by hundreds of school children in colorful attire. These events are interceded by the passing of floats and processions depicting traditional and modern themes.
Republic Day
On 11th November 1968 Maldives became Republic for the second time. The day is celebrated every year with parades and marches.
National Day
The National Day celebrates the great victory of Mohamed Thakurufaanu over the Portuguese in 1573. The National Day is celebrated on the 1st of Rabee-ul Awwal, the third month in the Islamic calendar.
Maldives Government
The Maldivian parliament, the Majilis or Citizens' Council, has 48 members. Male', which is the capital island, and each of the atolls have two representatives each, elected for five-year terms. All citizens over 21 years of age can vote. The president chooses the remaining eight parliamentary representatives, has the power to appoint or dismiss cabinet ministries and appoint all judges who administer justice under the broad tenets of Islam.
The Majlis considers candidates for the presidency for each five-year term, and makes nominations, which is put forward, so the vote is not so much an election as a national referendum - a strong vote of support for the president is seen as a show of loyalty to religious authorities, local political leaders and the country as a whole. In recent votes, the current president Mr. Gayoom has always received 90% support.
Local government of the 19 administrative atolls is in the hands of each atolhuverin, or atoll chief. The gazi is religious head of the atoll and joins the atoll chief in deciding legal matters. Each island also has its own chief, or kateeb, who is appointed by the atoll chief consultation with the Ministry of Atolls Administration.
Maldives Geography
The Maldives is an archipelago of about 1190 islands grouped into natural coral atolls.
One would expect the Indian Ocean, like any of the other oceans of the world to have its share of storms, waves and other phenomena related to large bodies of water. The Indian Ocean does fulfill this expectation till one begins to approach any of the coral atolls right in the middle of it.
An atoll is best visualized as a series of concentric layers. The outermost layer of the atoll is a strong reef. Composed of coral debris and living and living coral, this reef is a formidable barrier against rough seas. Once you gain access into the calm waters within, one is within the lagoon of the atoll proper.
The islands of the atoll follow the outer reef. Sometimes an occasional island juts up from inside the lagoon.
Each island has its own fringing reef. This adds to the protection. The water within this reef is often quite shallow. That aquamarine halo around the island in your picture postcard is this.
Even though the islands of the Maldives are well sheltered from oceanic waves, the ocean plays a major role in the climate of the country. It acts as a heat buffer, storing and giving up heat at a much slower rate than solid ground. Temperatures usually fluctuate between 23°C and maximum 32°C. There is always a cooling breeze blowing in from the sea.
The Maldives straddles the equator and lies outside the Indian Ocean cyclone belt.
Some people find the Maldivian climate monotonous. Length of the day never varies. Normally in June and July the southwest monsoon is said to bring rain. In reality, it can rain at any time.
Maldives Language
The language of the Maldives is Dhivehi, also written as "Dhivehi". It is related to an ancient form of Sinhala, a Sri Lankan language, but also contains some Arabic, Hindi and English words.
Historically speaking the early people spoke "Elu" a form of ancient Singhalese. The language had gone many transformations and the present day Dhivehi is written from left to right, probably to incorporate many Arabic words. Modern Thaana script was invented in the 16th century following the overthrow of Portuguese. The earliest Dhivehi is inscribed on copper plates known as the "Loamaafaanu". The script is written with letters and vowels separately on top or below the letters, depending on the sound.
Dhivehi is used equivocally in the administration of the country. Until the 1960s, Dhivehi was also the medium of teaching in al schools, but with the need for further education, Dhivehi medium syllabuses changed to English medium teaching. For this reason, English is widely understood, spoken and written by the locals.
English is widely spoken in Male', in the resorts, and by educated people through out the country. English is also spoken in Addu, the southernmost atoll, where the British employed many of the islanders on the air base for 20 years. On other islands especially outside the tourist zone, you'll be very lucky to find an adult who speaks anything other than Dhivehi.
Maldives Music & Dance
Bodu Beru
Bodu Beru is the most popular form of music and dance in the country, enjoyed by the young and old, men and women. There is a Bodu Beru troupe in almost every inhabited island and is regularly played at special functions and festivals.
The musical instruments used in Bodu Beru consist of three of four drums and a variety of percussion instruments. The drums are made from hollowed coconut woon and covered on both ends with manta ray skin or goat hide. A lead singer chants the lyrics and a chorus of 10 to 15 follows as they clap to the beat of the drums. The rhythm build as the song continues until it reaches a frenzied crescendo.
As the rhythm picks up, dancers come out from amongst the troupe swaying to the rhythm. As the beat becomes faster the dancers leap and jerk to the beat as if in a trance. Onlookers join in clapping and dancing. Old men, suddenly catch a stray rhythm and throw themselves into the arena. To wild applause from the crowd they gyrate and grimace in their dance, passing on to the young what they have learnt from their forefathers. According to some historians Bodu beru was introduced to the country in the early 19th century by African slaves. During the reign of Mueenuddeen I these slaves were liberated and sent to Feridhoo in Ari Atoll. It is believed that bodu beru spread out from there to become one of the most popular forms of entertainment in the country.
Thaara
Thaara also holds a special place in local entertainment. Two lines of men attired in white sit on the ground and sing beating hand drums while others dance between them. Thaara is believed to have been introduced from the Middle East in the seventeenth century. Today thaara is only played at national events.
Dhandijehun
Dhandijehun is another form of entertainment, which is popular throughout the country. This is mostly performed to celebrate festive events such as Eid and other national occasions.
Bandiyaa Jehun
Bandiyaa Jehun is a popular form of dance performed by young women. The women carrying metal water pots stand in two lines facing each. They sing and dance to melodious tunes while tapping the rhythm on the pots with rings worm on their fingers.
Maldives Art & Craft
The beautifully carved tombstones in some of the old cemeteries and the fine stone carving of the Hukuru Miskiy in Male' bear witness to the intricate skills of Maldivian stone carvers of the past. Maldivians are deft craftsmen producing beautifully crafted pieces mostly out of what is available locally. Although many of the skills are now a thing of the past several skills have been passed on from generation to generation and lives on even today.
The art of calligraphy has strong connections with Islam. Old and new mosques display beautifully penned versus from the Holy Quran. The Islamic Centre exhibits some of the finest samples of the work of modern calligraphers in the country. While many crafts have become obsolete, others have found new life with the advent of tourism. The production of ornaments from tortoise shells and black coral once valued by visitors has now ceased completely because of the growing awareness among the public on the need to preserve the environment.
Wooden Lacquer ware
Perhaps the most distinctive of the Maldivian handicrafts, these are almost exclusively produced in Thulhaadhoo in Baa Atoll. Liye Laajehun as it is called Dhivehi involves the process of shaping, and hollowing out pieces of wood to form beautifully crafted boxes, containers and ornamental objects. Made from local funa (Alexandrian laurel) which grows abundantly throughout the country, they come in various shapes and sizes; small pillboxes, vases of various sizes to round and oval plates with lids. These elegant pieces are lacquered in strands of red, black and yellow resin and delicately carved with flowing flowery patterns.
Mats
Beautiful reed mats are woven throughout the country, the most famous of which are those that are woven by women of Gadhdhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. Thundu Kunaa as they are known in Dhivehi ranges in size from that of a place mat to a full sized single mattress. The women of Gadhdhoo collect the reeds called haa from the nearby island of Fioari. They are dried in the sun and stained with natural dyes, the color varying from fawn to black. These mats with their intricate, abstract designs are woven on a handloom according to the imagination and skill of the weaver.
Maldives Tourism
The first tourist resort was opened in 1972. At present there are 87 resorts and a large number of cruise vessels that operate in the tourism industry. The number of tourist arrivals reached 429,700 in the year 2000 and is expected to grow by 8% during the year 2001. About 79% of tourists originated from Europe, mainly from Italy and Germany, United Kingdom, France and Switzerland.
However tourist arrivals from Asia is becoming increasingly important comprising 17 percent of all arrivals in the year. Japanese tourists continue to dominate the Asian market with 54% of the total arrivals from Asia in 1999.
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posted by peterdj at
10:41 PM
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A population of little over 200,000 people is spread over the islands with over a quarter of them living in Male’, the capital. To foreigners the village people on some islands may seem shy. Curious of outsiders, they prefer to observe newcomers from a distance at first. One soon learns of their hospitality when the island chief provides a cold coconut drink and a healthy snack, usually made of seafood.
The government is dedicated to improving the life of the people on the islands. Young people are encouraged to strive for higher education. Under government sponsorship young students are given grants to study abroad and they return to The Maldives to give service to the country. 