Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives, Kong Xianhua, has shared his experience participating in preparations and celebrations of the traditional Maldivian cultural activity "Beyya" during a visit to Kinbidhoo in Thaa Atoll, highlighting the vibrant community spirit and rich cultural heritage of the island.
In a message shared following the event, Ambassador Kong described the celebration as an "amazing show," noting the creativity and enthusiasm displayed by local residents.
According to the ambassador, participants decorated themselves using coconut leaves, cotton and a variety of locally available materials, creating colourful and imaginative costumes that reflected the island's cultural traditions and artistic expression.
"Some costumes were playful and amusing, others looked wonderfully spooky, but every single one reflected remarkable imagination and creativity," he said.
The Beyya parade moved through the island's streets under the midday sun, accompanied by music, dancing and community celebrations, with residents gathering to cheer and take part in the festivities.
"As the parade moved through the island under the bright midday sun, people danced, sang, and cheered together along the streets. Music, laughter, and celebration seemed to flow through every corner of Kinbidhoo," the ambassador added.
The participation of Ambassador Kong in the event reflects his continued engagement with local communities across the Maldives since assuming his diplomatic post.
Over the past two years, Kong has regularly travelled to islands across the country, taking part in cultural, educational and community-based activities while promoting people-to-people exchanges between China and the Maldives. His visits have included engagements with local councils, youth groups, schools, cultural organisations and community events in various atolls.
China and the Maldives have maintained longstanding diplomatic relations since 1972, with cooperation expanding in recent years across infrastructure, tourism, trade, education, healthcare and cultural exchanges.
Cultural diplomacy has become an increasingly visible aspect of bilateral ties, with both countries supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening mutual understanding and people-to-people connections. Chinese cultural events, language programmes, educational exchanges and community outreach activities have been organised in the Maldives, while Maldivian traditions and cultural heritage have been showcased during events held in China.
Observers note that Ambassador Kong's participation in local celebrations such as Beyya reflects a broader effort to engage directly with communities and gain a deeper understanding of Maldivian culture and traditions beyond official diplomatic engagements.
Beyya is among the traditional community celebrations observed in parts of the Maldives, bringing together residents through costume-making, music, dance and collective festivities, while preserving aspects of the country's cultural heritage for younger generations.
