National Award of Honor conferred to three individuals

Three individuals have been conferred with the National Award of Honor today at Ha. Utheemu's National Day ceremony, including:

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu handed them a Shield and Badge in commemoration, along with an award letter.

The President's Office said that Sheikh Ismail is an individual best known for his work in raising awareness of Islam and for aiding many Maldivian students in their pursuit of higher religious knowledge overseas. He has also translated many religious books to Dhivehi, with him currently working on translation as well.

Due to health reasons, Sheikh Ismail could not make it to the ceremony, with the award instead being received by Sheikh Mohamed Latheef.

Mauroof Jameel, an individual with 40 years of experience in architecture, teaching and management, was awarded the National Award of Honor for his contributions to construction and architecture.

The President's Office has stated that Mauroof has approached all his work with sincerity and has garnered the love and respect of the public.

Mauroof is a highly experienced expert in the architectural heritage of Maldives, along with being a world-renowned expert in coral stone architecture. Due to his research into coral stone mosques, various places in Maldives are on UNESCO's World Heritage Tentative List. He has conducted extensive research, written various papers and done exhibitions on the architectural heritage of the country.

He has also done extensive work in promoting construction and housing in Maldives. He also played a key role in designing the Construction Act and the National Building Code. Mauroof was also a driving force in the reclamation of Hulhumale' during former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom's administration, an initiative that sought to bring a solution to the housing crisis of Maldives.

The National Award of Honor was also awarded to the famous and late singer Mohamed Majidh (Mezzo), who passed away suddenly on 12th February 2025. His daughter, Mira Mohamed Majid, received the honor in his name.

Mezzo was given the award for his work as a performing artist.

Mezzo, who had spent a significant amount of time in the music industry, is most well-known for Mezzo Band, a musical group who had created music during the early days of growing public interest in local artists and music. His work became quite popular among the public, mainly among youth audiences.

His catalogue includes famous songs such as "Kamana Goathee Aadhanu", "Jismu", "Roanu Edhuru", "Vehje Kamakaa Hajjaa Hamaey", "Elhi kan'dumathi", "Maaliaraaney Maaliaraaney" and "Akiridhemey". Later songs such as "Udun Tharithah", "Visnaa Visnaa" and "Dhaanehey Thi Handhaan Filaa" also gained widespread recognition.

Mezzo had also been awarded with the National Award of Recognition in 2010 for his musical artistry. He also received the President's Tourism Gold Award in 2022.