Maldives News Bulletin - Volume 139

The Ministry of Tourism has updated its list of islands and lagoons available for tourism development bids. This marks the third revision since the initial announcement on May 3.

In this latest update, four islands have been removed from the list: Dhiffushi and Maidhoo in Lhaviyani Atoll, Kanimeedhoo in Thaa Atoll, and Kalhuhtaa in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll. Six new lagoons have been added to the list, including three in Malé Atoll, one in Baa Atoll, one in Vaavu Atoll, and one in Alifu Dhaalu Atoll. Additionally, Raaverinkolhuhtaa in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll has also been included.

Interested parties are encouraged to submit their proposals for the newly listed islands and lagoons. Application forms are available on the Ministry of Tourism’s website. The government aims to broaden tourism development across the nation and is committed to supporting investors in accelerating the completion of ongoing resort projects.

SOURCE : PSM

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has appointed Justice (Retired) Uz. Abbas Shareef as the Prosecutor General. The letter of appointment was presented to the new Prosecutor General at a ceremony held at the President’s Office on Wednesday morning.

The appointment was made in accordance with Article 221 of the Constitution and Article 3 of the Prosecutor General’s Act. Uz Abbas Shareef previously served as the secretary to the President on Legal Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs at the President’s Office.
He was also a member of the Governing Board of the Maldives International Financial Service Authority and served as a member of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC), along with various other law-related positions. Uz Abbas Shareef received his Bachelor of Law (LLB) from the University of Tasmania.

The Chief Justice of the Maldives Honorable Uz. Ahmed Muthasim Adnan administered the oath of office.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

The Administration has provided further details regarding President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s decision to develop and implement the “National Development Masterplan for the Next 20 Years” in a sustainable manner. Chief Spokesperson at the President’s Office, Heena Waleed, made these remarks during a press conference held at the President’s Office on Tuesday.

The decision followed comprehensive deliberations on a proposal presented by the Principal Secretary to the President on Public Policy during the September 16, 2024, Sunday Cabinet meeting.

The Cabinet had decided to oversee the implementation of the plan, recognising that national development includes both economic and human development, which facilitates and revitalises nationalism, embodying its characteristics and virtues. This includes incorporating the fundamental principles of the National Development Masterplan into the Constitution, thereby ensuring the plan’s protection under the law, and enacting a separate statute that delineates the criteria for any future modifications to the plan.

Furthermore, the Cabinet will constitute a team of experts in economic development, social planning, environmental and climate change, governance, and spatial planning, with oversight by local authorities. Competent locals will lead the team, ensuring the preservation of vision and nationalism. The Cabinet has scheduled the commencement of the plan’s formulation for November 2024, with a completion target of 12 months.

At a press conference, the Chief Spokesperson at the President’s Office, Heena Waleed, presented details of the plan to the media and addressed their inquiries. Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed, also provided an update on the Ministry’s key initiatives. He outlined the benefits of the Free Trade Agreement between the Maldives and China, reported on progress in building a creative economy, and discussed other significant Ministry activities.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

Ministry of Tourism has revealed the Maldives has welcomed over 100,000 tourists from Germany.

The latest statistics released by the ministry indicates a total of 100,420 tourist arrivals were from Germany, marking a 12.9 percent increase compared to the 88,876 tourist arrivals from the country, during the same period last year.

Germany is currently the top fifth source market of Maldives tourism, making up 7.1 percent of total arrivals. While over 100,000 tourists have vistied the Maldives from Germany, China remains as the top source of market, followed by Russia.

The Government has targeted to increase arrivals from Germany, with the Ministry and Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) participating in the annual Internationale Tourismus-Börse Berlin (ITB) Fair held in Berlin, the capital of Germany.

The Government has also launched an initiative to host the ITB Fair in the Maldives in 2026. Ministry of Tourism revealed that should this opportunity be granted to the Maldives, it would become a golden opportunity for tourism in the country.

The daily update report published by the ministry shows that Maldives has welcomed 1.4 million tourists so far this year. This is a notable increase compared to the 1.2 million tourists who arrived during the same period last year. The data also indicates that an average of 4,171 tourists visits the Maldives daily, with an average stay of seven days. The government aims to welcome two million tourists by the end of the year.

SOURCE : PSM

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has advised caution to avoid careless mistakes. He made the statement in a message addressing road accidents, which was shared on social media.

The message was delivered through a two-minute, 13-second video uploaded by renowned animator Yamin Rashid and Cellmin Animation Studio. The video highlights one of the most pressing social issues in the Maldives.

It tells the story of a father who sets out on his motorbike to deliver a gift to his son, who lives separately. On the way, the father is hit by a speeding car driven by his own son, the intended recipient of the gift. The video ends with the son in tears, filled with regret for the irreversible tragedy. The powerful depiction emphasises that every life is precious, and it is the responsibility of all road users to prioritise safety. In his post on social media, President Dr. Muizzu praised Yamin Rasheed for his effort to convey such a crucial message under the slogan “Life is precious, drive safely.” He called on everyone to work together to make roads safer. He also reiterated that careless mistakes often do not offer a second chance for correction.

The Maldives has recently witnessed an increase in dangerous road accidents due to negligence and disregard for traffic regulations, leading to several fatalities. The increase in illegal vehicle use and reckless driving, including loud and dangerous behavior on the roads, has exacerbated the situation. In response, President Dr. Muizzu urged authorities to strictly enforce traffic laws and regulations to curb the growing issue in the community.

The Maldives Police Service (MPS) has also intensified road patrols and maintenance efforts. In addition, the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, along with other relevant authorities, has launched initiatives aimed at addressing the issue of unregulated vehicles on the roads.

Addu International Airport Company (AIA) has stated that the development project of Gan International Airport (GIA) is progressing rapidly and remains on schedule. The development of GIA began last year.

Under the project, a 4.3 km road connecting to the airport is planned for development. The company stated that the road development will involve the installation of drainage systems and laying asphalt on the roads, to be completed in November or December.

GIA will also have a centralised administration building, an air traffic control tower and an expanded passenger terminal. The foundation for the expanded area of the terminal has already been laid. 

The expanded terminal will be able to cater to 1.5 million passengers annually and will offer the visitors state-of-the-art facilities. Businesses will also benefit from the new facility, with the airport developing a cold storage and a cargo facility.

The development of GIA is funded by a USD29.7 million loan from India’s Export Import Bank of India (EXIM Bank). The project is tasked to Renaatus Projects Pvt Ltd and expected to be completed by March 2025.

SOURCE: PSM

Special Envoy for Climate Change Ali Shareef has stated that the government remains committed to the goal to reduce the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in the Maldives. He made the remarks during the opening ceremony of a forum organised by the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) in occasion of this year’s International Ozone Day,

Speaking at the Ozone Day Forum, Special Envoy Ali Shareef emphasised the crucial role of the ozone layer in shielding the Earth from harmful sunlight. He noted that airports and aviation operations contribute significantly to the release of toxic gases into the atmosphere. He also said that Velana International Airport (VIA) is currently working to lower its emissions.

Additionally, Special Envoy Ali Shareef outlined the government’s efforts to cut down on HFC emissions, particularly due to their widespread use in refrigeration appliances and their impact as potent greenhouse gases in the Maldives. He praised the commitment of MACL to green initiatives, announcing that the company aims to shift 90 percent of the airport’s energy consumption to renewable sources. The move, he added, aligns with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s broader objective of converting 30 percent of the Maldives’ energy supply to renewable sources.

Meanwhile, Managing Director of MACL Ibrahim Shareef Mohamed affirmed the company’s plans to adopt eco-friendly practices. He revealed the company’s ambition to become a solar-powered renewable energy company, with a long-term goal of generating and selling more solar energy than it consumes. He also said that the company is working towards transitioning its fleet of vehicles to renewable energy.

The MACL Ozone Day Forum, held at the Islamic University of the Maldives, was a one-day event attended by MACL employees and representatives from various government institutions. The forum aimed to educate participants on the harmful effects of toxic substances on the ozone layer and explore strategies to minimize their use. International Ozone Day is celebrated annually on September 16 to raise awareness about ozone layer depletion and promote efforts to mitigate further damage.

Source: PSM

State Trading Organisation (STO) has announced that it is ready to launch its international bunkering service on September 19, with bookings already being received ahead of the service’s official start.

In a statement, STO confirmed that all preparations have been completed in coordination with relevant government agencies. The company’s first bunkering service will be provided to the YC Barrier, a vessel operated by the national shipping company, Maldives State Shipping (MSS). The vessel, which previously traveled to Sri Lanka for bunkering due to the unavailability of low-sulfur fuel in the Maldives, will now receive fuel locally.

The YC Barrier, which operates between Colombo and Malé, uses approximately 200 tonnes of fuel per month and has a capacity of 1,100 containers.

STO emphasised that the new service will contribute significantly to the Maldivian economy, with further market expansion expected as the service gains reliability. Bunkering services in the region are typically provided by Sri Lanka and India, but STO’s new offshore service will now be available with two ships in collaboration with Vitol, a global leader in bunkering.

The government has projected that the launch of the bunkering service will generate an additional USD 400 million for the Maldives’ GDP, marking it as one of the largest economic diversification projects in recent history. STO is also set to collaborate with Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) to offer 14 additional maritime services under the North Maritime Service, as part of the government’s wider economic development strategy.

Source: PSM

Fenaka Corporation Limited has introduced a roadmap, aiming to digitalise the corporation.

The roadmap included various portals and software to enhance the already seamless services provided by the Fenaka. The ceremony held to launch the roadmap and provide information on it was attended the Principal Secretary to the President on Public Policy Abdulla Nazim and Fenaka’s Managing Director Muaz Mohamed Rasheed.

Speaking about the roadmap, Managing Director of Fenaka Muaz revealed his observations following his trip to various atolls, stating that the various branches of Fenaka in the islands had limited to no connection with the Corporation’s headquarters. Digitalisation, he said, would eliminate the gaps in communication, enhance the provision of essential services to the islands, efficiently and conveniently.

At the ceremony, the “Girumbaa Portal” was launched. This is a portal which will store information and data related to the services provided in the islands, while monitoring

the power houses and power plants. The Corporation stated the portal will play a significant role in allowing for immediate preparedness and action to be taken before any potential disruptions to services occurs.

In addition to the “Girumbaa Portal”, Fenaka introduced a software, designated to digitalise the works of its human resource department. The corporation stated that the software will ensure convenience to employees to request for leaves or any employment related works. Furthermore, the roadmap featured the Fenaka Tender Portal, ticket system, fuel management system and My Fenaka Portal as well.

Fenaka stated that all software programmes, other than the HR system, were created by developers and software engineers in Fenaka. The Corporation reported that the Central SCADA System is currently being used in Thaa Atoll. Fenaka stated that it aims to replace all current meters with smart meters as part of its digital plan. Smart meters have now been installed and officiated in the households of Kudahuvadhoo island, Dhaalu Atoll.

Source: PSM

Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has inaugurated the Creative Economy Fund. The fund was launched by the Minister, at a special ceremony held at Dharubaaruge. The fund, launched under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s policy of developing a creative economy, aims to provide financial assistance to innovative and skilled individuals.

As such, Business Centre Corporation (BCC), leading the fund, announced that financial assistance ranging from USD 3,242 - USD 19,455 to all individuals requesting support. The funds will be provided to individuals working in four primary fields; film production, music production, the field of arts and crafts and digital content creation. BCC said that the opportunity to request for assistance will be opened from October 10 onwards.

BCC expressed confidence that the loan provided to individuals will assist them to overcome the challenges faced in the industries. It noted that the repayment of loans can be done conveniently as well. Furthermore, BCC stated that it will target freelancers and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), when financing projects.

In addition to the Creative Economy Fund, Minister Saeed also officiated the roadmap, which details the works of the creative economy for the next five years. The government disclosed that the roadmap was drafted such that it includes the 78 pledges outlined in the president’s manifesto. The roadmap will focus on increasing the utilisation of technological equipment, enhancing the legislation to protect the rights of businesses and their products, while seeking trade opportunities within the nation and with foreign countries. It will also focus on building a sustainable and independent economy, prioritising culture and heritage.

Source: PSM

Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has emphasised that there were no barriers to youth development. He made the remarks during the launch of the Creative Economy Fund and a new five-year strategy.

Speaking at the event, Minister Saeed highlighted the country’s synchronised economy, noting that fostering a creative economy is a key priority of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration. He stressed the government’s commitment to building a skilled economy in the Maldives. He also noted that the recent Trade and Investment Framework Agreement with the United States (US) included discussions on enabling cross-border transactions between the two nations.

Additionally, Minister Saeed revealed that the government is partnering with platforms like YouTube, Google, and PayPal to facilitate financial transactions through these services. He noted that this is something many young Maldivians involved in online businesses have been eagerly awaiting. He also shared that a Ministry survey found over 400 artisans actively creating and selling products online.

Furthermore, Minister Saeed said that there are no size restrictions for e-commerce platforms in the Maldivian market, and the government will support their growth. He encouraged citizens to seize these emerging opportunities, noting that while the number of opportunities for youth may seem limited, the potential for expansion is significant.

The government expects that cross-border transactions through PayPal will soon be available as part of its efforts to establish a creative economy in the Maldives. It also aims to grow the country’s digital economy by opening doors for Maldivian businesses in major global markets.

Source: PSM

Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has disclosed that the China-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is set to take effect on January 1, 2025. He made the statement during a press conference held at the President’s Office.

The FTA was initially signed in 2014 and approved by the Maldivian parliament in 2017. However, its implementation was postponed following a change of government in 2018. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has since initiated the steps required to bring the agreement into force.

Minister Saeed emphasized that the FTA would offer significant benefits to the Maldives, including enhanced opportunities for exporting various goods and providing additional services.

Currently, trade between the Maldives and China is valued at USD 45 million, but the Government projects that this figure will rise to USD 1 billion once the agreement is in effect. The Maldives has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the People’s Bank of China (PBOC) on September 13, aiming to establish a framework for current account transactions and direct investments in their respective currencies. The government is confident that the MoU will play a pivotal role in reducing the dependency on dollars and appreciate the Maldivian currency, Rufiyaa (MVR). It further disclosed the plans of President Dr Muizzu to reach similar agreements with other countries as well.

Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr Aishath Rameela has announced that the temporary cat shelter will be finished and opened this year.

The cat shelter was tasked to the Male’ City Council on January 25. The shelter is in the second phase of Hulhumale’, with Housing Development Corporation (HDC) providing 5,000 acres of land for the project.

Minister Dr Rameela highlighted that the development of the cat shelter is a key initiative of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, who has given it significant attention.

She mentioned that the shelter’s construction is nearly complete, with current efforts focused on setting up electricity, water, and sewage systems.

Additionally, the Minister disclosed that the shelter is in need of staff, with plans to open before the government’s first anniversary. While the primary focus will be on street cats, the attached veterinary clinic will also cater to other animals. The Minister further emphasized the importance of training and gaining experience in handling cats and veterinary work, encouraging those interested to take advantage of the Ministry’s opportunities to become veterinarians.

Source: PSM

The Ministry of Higher Education, Labour, and Skills Development is working on automating its processes through the “My Edu Portal” to expedite the disbursement of government loans for higher education. Currently, student loan applications are processed manually through the main education portal.

The Ministry has reported that 3,201 students have received higher education opportunities so far this year, with the fees for 10,595 students studying abroad still to be processed.

Up to now, USD 44.8 million has been allocated for these students, and the necessary documents have been submitted to the Ministry of Finance.

State Minister for Higher Education, Dr. Abdulla Nazeer, acknowledged concerns regarding the processing of government-issued loans for higher education. He attributed the delays to the manual processing and verification required by Ministry employees.

Previously, loan application forms had to be submitted in person at the Ministry. The ongoing upgrade of the portal aims to speed up loan processing. Once completed, the portal will feature live chat support and address issues such as missed emails and delays in responses. Additionally, the upgrade will help resolve challenges faced by both Ministry staff and students related to loan processing delays.

Source: PSM

Business Centre Corporation (BCC) is seeking potential investors to develop the garment factory in Addu City, next week. BCC has completed the first phase of the developmental project and is now prepared to commence the practical work.

BCC reported that the project will be opened for investors in a joint venture policy, contractor finance policy and public private partnership policy.

A consultant has been dispatched to the City, to finalise preparations to commence the project.

Managing Director of BCC Ibrahim Ziyau stated that the development of the garment factory will provide employment opportunities. Ziyau said that the factory will provide greater market access and opportunities to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the industry. Reducing the dependency on imported clothing material is also an objective of this initiative.

BCC signed an agreement with Addu City Council to allocate land for the development of the Garment Factory, on June 9. Under the agreement, 30,000 square foot land was leased to BCC.

Source: PSM