The Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddeen (Nishaan Dhiyamigilee Sharafuge Izzathuge Verikan) was conferred today upon Ahmed Shakir (Kashima Shakir).
President Mohamed Muizzu presented the prestigious honor to Kashima Shakir during a special ceremony held in Haa Alif Utheemu to mark National Day, in recognition of his service to the state spanning over 41 years.
Throughout his career, Kashima Shakir held several high-ranking positions, including Legal Counsel, Shipping Master, Director of Administration, and Director General at the Ministry of Transport and Shipping. He also served as the Executive Director of the National Centre for Linguistic and Historical Research.
Following his retirement from the civil service, Shakir served as a Senior Curriculum Developer and lecturer at Villa College for over 12 years. Additionally, he represented Male’ Atoll as a member of both the People’s Majlis and the Special Majlis.
His contributions to the arts and media are equally extensive. From performing in Majeediyya School’s Golden Jubilee productions to founding the Cultural and Dramatic Society (CDS), which he led for a decade, Shakir has been a pivotal figure in Maldivian entertainment. As a program producer at Television Maldives, he wrote screenplays and trained actors for numerous acclaimed teledramas and films, including Dhon Hiyala aa Alifulhu, Ghaazee Bandaraain, and Tharaaganduge Kashigandu.
Shakir is also a prolific historian and researcher. His literary contributions include the 640-page volume "Maldives in the 20th Century" and five subsequent volumes in the series.
His bibliography further includes works such as "The Spread of Islam in the Maldives," "The Judicial System of the Maldives," and "The History of Maldivian Currency," alongside various institutional histories and biographies of prominent Maldivian figures.
A lifelong learner who attained a Master of Shari’ah at the age of 69, Shakir has previously received the National Award of Encouragement for performing arts and oratory, the Silver Pen for Journalism, the National Award of Honour for historical writing, and the Maldives Academy of Language’s "Hassan Thaajuddeen Award."
Currently, Kashima Shakir serves as the Lead for Maldivian History on the "Dhivehi Qaumiyyathuge Isvaru" (Council of National Heritage) established by Muizzu. He also serves as the Chairperson of the National Awards Committee.
