Heritage Minister Heena Waleed has told Parliament that MVR 4.1 million was spent on activities marking the 60th anniversary of Maldives independence last year.

The figure was disclosed during a parliament sitting in response to a question raised by MDP Galolhu North MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu), who requested details of government spending on the celebrations and whether events were held in the atolls.

Minister Heena said the entire expenditure was used for events held in Male', with no official activities conducted in atolls.

“So, the total cost went to holding events in Male',” she said.

Maldives marked its 60th Independence Day on July 26 last year. The celebrations included flag-raising ceremonies at Republic Square, military and cadet parades by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and National Cadet Corps, as well as school cultural performances.

Independence Day celebrations featured a national parade and cultural events held across Male' and Hulhumale', including street processions and cultural displays.

The celebrations also coincided with a high-profile visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the same period, when official events in the capital were extended until July 28.