Ministry Contracts FDC to Transform Usgekolhu Into Immersive Museum

The Ministry of Dhivehi Language, Culture and Heritage has contracted the state-owned Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC) to transform Usgekolhu into an immersive museum. 

The agreement was signed by Minister Adam Naseer on behalf of the Ministry and FDC Managing Director Hamdhan Shakeel. The project aims to introduce Maldivians to a new perspective on their heritage, with the Ministry planning to use state-of-the-art technology to highlight the efforts that preserved the origins of Maldivian civilisation, the Maldivian state, and traditional lifestyles. The interactive museum is intended to appeal to visitors and is described as a key component of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s policy on protecting Maldivian heritage.

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FDC, originally established for social housing projects, has in recent years undertaken other initiatives, including the development of school classrooms. Managing Director Hamdhan Shakeel confirmed the company’s full cooperation and readiness to undertake the Usgekolhu project. Details regarding the project’s cost have not yet been disclosed.

Usgekolhu, historically the residence of several Maldivian sultans, later served as the country’s national museum. Following the establishment of a new national museum, the site was left unused and subsequently leased for 12 years to a private company to operate a restaurant, a decision made during the administration of former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayyoom. Plans to develop Usgekolhu into a children’s heritage plaza with the Advocating the Rights of Children (ARC) organisation did not progress.