In a stirring speech at the National Day celebrations, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu spoke from the heart, calling for a kinder, more respectful approach to freedom of expression. He made it clear that true freedom doesn’t mean saying or writing whatever pops into your head without thinking of others.

Speaking to a warm crowd of Maldivians gathered for the occasion, the President reminded everyone that every person deserves dignity, honor, and respect. “We all have our pride, but so does the person next to us,” he said, his voice carrying a mix of conviction and care. “It’s not right to hurt someone’s honor or dignity just because you can. That’s not what freedom is about.”

President Muizzu, reflecting on the values that tie the nation together, said it’s everyone’s responsibility—especially as Muslims—to watch their words and actions. “Keeping our hands and tongues in check is a duty we all share,” he said, tying it to the spirit of National Day. “It’s about building a stronger, more united Maldives.”

He didn’t shy away from expressing worry about how people talk to each other these days, noting that respect and care for others’ feelings often seem to take a backseat. “We’re losing that beautiful tradition of thinking before we speak,” he said, encouraging everyone to bring back that sense of responsibility to protect the nation’s spirit.

The President’s message was clear: freedom of expression is important, but it needs to come with boundaries. “If we want our nation to grow and thrive, we have to speak and write with care,” he said, his words resonating with the crowd celebrating the Maldives’ shared heritage.

As the festivities lit up the night, President Muizzu’s call for a more thoughtful, respectful way of communicating left many reflecting on how small acts of kindness in words can strengthen the bonds of the Maldivian community.