President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, said tonight that improving and strengthening the military's capabilities is something to be done with pride and not something to be ashamed of or mocked.

Speaking at the official ceremony of the 133rd anniversary of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) held at Kalhuthukkalaa Koshi, the President said that while protecting the country's economic zone is legally mandated for the military, the necessary resources for this are not established in the service.

The President said that while the military's land and sea vehicles are old, damaged, and need to be increased, this government has started work to enhance the military's capabilities.

He said that the work to strengthen the national defense force is something to be done with pride for the protection, security, and freedom of the Maldives and to pass on that freedom to future generations, and it is not something to be ashamed of.

"Improving the standards of the Maldivian military, providing necessary resources, providing training, and strengthening the military force are things to be proud of. If someone is ashamed when various things are provided to the military, they need to question themselves about their level of patriotism. Are they a Maldivian who loves their country? If one is born in this country and is Maldivian, they should have patriotism. Anyone with patriotism should be proud of every advancement the government provides to the proud Maldivian military. This is a national matter," the President said.

The President also responded to those who mock the provision of resources to the military in tonight's ceremony.

"Those who mock this, I believe, are people without nationalism, without patriotic love, who have gone to the extreme of servility, and who are politically willing to accept any state of the country," the President said.

The President further said that he is working to enhance the military's capabilities with pride. He also said he will proudly move forward in bringing advancements to all forces of the Maldivian military.