Ministry discusses poetry as therapy for abuse victims with police

Ministry of Dhivehi Language and Culture has held talks with the Maldives Police Service to explore the use of Maldivian poetry as a tool for psychological healing among victims of abuse.

The meeting, held yesterday, brought together Minister of Dhivehi Language and Culture Adam Naseer Ibrahim and senior police officials, including Superintendent of Police Anwar Naeem and Inspector of Police Ibrahim Ashraf, along with representatives from the Victim Support Department.

Several state and deputy ministers from the ministry also participated.

According to a statement published on the ministry’s website, discussions centred on how Dhivehi literature, language, and cultural heritage can play a role in improving the psychological wellbeing of those affected by trauma.

The ministry affirmed its commitment to supporting police efforts in this area.

Both sides highlighted the need to revive and promote Maldivian culture as a means of fostering a more peaceful and crime-free society.

Minister Adam Naseer has previously voiced his belief in the therapeutic potential of poetry, describing it as “a means of healing” and noting its longstanding use in mental health support across different cultures.

He first announced the ministry's intention to investigate the use of poetry as psychological treatment during Poets' Day celebrations in Gaafu Dhaalu Thinadhoo last year.

“Even in developed countries, poetry has been used as a treatment for psychological problems,” he said.

“People who develop depression and suffer from various illnesses have been treated to reduce their pain through poetry,” he said.

While formal treatment programes have yet to begin, the ministry is currently conducting studies in collaboration with relevant institutions to assess the potential of using traditional Dhivehi poetry in therapeutic settings.

“If we succeed, Dhivehi poetry will ascend to another level,” Naseer said.