Maldives Gifts Historic Thun’dukunaa to UN, Showcasing Cultural Heritage

The Maldives has presented a historic Thun’dukunaa, a traditional hand-woven reed mat, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. This marks the first Maldivian artifact to be displayed at the UN, symbolizing a landmark moment of cultural diplomacy. Dr. Ali Naseer Mohamed, the Permanent Representative of the Maldives to the UN, officially unveiled the gift during a ceremony commemorating the 60th anniversary of the nation's independence and its six decades of UN membership. The donation was initiated during President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s official visit to the UN in 2024, underscoring the Maldives' commitment to international cooperation and cultural exchange. The Thun’dukunaa was meticulously woven by a master artisan from Gadhdhoo island in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, a region renowned for its exquisite mat-weaving tradition. The intricate patterns of the mat stand as a testament to the nation's rich artistic heritage and skilled craftsmanship. They reflect the aesthetic traditions of the Maldivian atolls and embody the resilience and creativity of its people, offering the world a tangible piece of Maldivian identity and history on a global stage.