Maldives News Bulletin - Volume 143

On the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly, President His Excellency Dr Mohamed Muizzu met with His Excellency Dr. Mahmoud Abbas, President of the State of Palestine.

During the meeting, President Abbas delivered a powerful message to the international community, stating, “We are asking for a ceasefire because we are also human,” and called for global support and collaboration to address the plight of the Palestinian people.

President Dr Muizzu reaffirmed the Maldives’ unwavering support for Palestine in every possible way. He expressed hope that the Palestinian people would receive all their rightful entitlements and pledged the Maldives’ continued efforts to secure international recognition of Palestine as an independent nation.

President Abbas expressed his gratitude for the Maldives’ long-standing support, saying, “We are always aware of the Maldives’ support for the Palestinian people, and we deeply appreciate your unwavering solidarity.”

The leaders also discussed areas of cooperation between the two nations.

The meeting concluded with both presidents reaffirming their commitment to working together on matters of mutual interest and further strengthening diplomatic relations between the Maldives and Palestine.

 SOURCE : The President’s Office

In a powerful display of solidarity, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu reaffirmed the Maldives unwavering support for the Palestinian cause, in an interview following his meeting with Palestinian President Dr Mahmoud Abbas. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79).

Speaking with international media, President Dr Muizzu stated that the Maldivian people stand in full solidarity with the Palestinian people, adding that every single Maldivian supports the Palestinian people and their cause. He condemned the ongoing genocide and war crimes committed against the Palestinian people. The President further assured that the Maldives had, in the past, is presently, and would always continue to support the Palestinian cause.

The Maldives and its people have always advocated strong support for Palestine and its people.

The Maldives’ steadfast support for Palestine has been a consistent element of its foreign policy, reflecting the nation’s commitment to justice and human rights on the global stage. The Maldives co-sponsored the resolution to support the admission of the State of Palestine as a full member state of the United Nations, which was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 2024.

The Maldives welcomed the International Court of Justice (ICJ) Advisory Opinion on the legal consequences of Israel’s policies has also submitted a written statement and an oral submission in this case.

Additionally, a telethon was held in Maldives on 12 June 2024, in solidarity with the people of Palestine, which raised over USD 1.2 million contributed by the public, which has been donated to UNRWA.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives, Moosa Zameer has sent a congratulatory message to Jean-Noël Barrot, on his appointment as the Minister for European and Foreign Affairs of France.

Minister’s message reads as follows:

“It is my pleasure to convey warm congratulations on your appointment as the new Minister for European and Foreign Affairs of France.

France is an important bilateral partner to the Maldives, and I look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen the partnership between our two countries over the course of your tenure. 

Let me also extend my best wishes for your good health and well-being, and for the continued progress and prosperity of the people of France. 

Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.”

SOURCE : Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The Ministry of Islamic Affairs has authorised nine companies to construct mosques across various regions of the country this year.

Under the permit for private individuals to build mosques, five are currently being constructed in the Greater Male’ Region, while the remaining four are being developed in other atolls. The Islamic ministry has announced that agreements have been signed for the construction of these mosques.

Specifically, two mosques are being built in Hulhumale’ Phase II, a new mosque is being constructed on the site of the Zikura Mosque, another at the Masjid Yusuf Al-Barubaree site, and additional mosques are planned for Alifushi in Raa Atoll and Ihavandhoo in Haa Alifu Atoll. Furthermore, a mosque is being constructed at Lot 2215 in Hulhumale’ Phase II, with new mosques also being built in Hulhudhoo in Addu City, and Nolhivaranfaru in Haa Dhaalu Atoll.

The ministry stated that 22 mosques are currently under construction, with a goal to complete three by November this year. So far, two privately built mosques and one managed by the ministry have opened this year.

SOURCE : PSM

The Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company Limited (MIFCO) and the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare have held discussions on potential agricultural developments. The meeting took place at the MIFCO head office building in Male’ City.

During the consultation meeting, MIFCO outlined plans to assess its sites for agricultural potential, explore ways to expand operations, and develop a comprehensive work plan. The company also considered increasing livestock, such as goats and chickens, at its Felivaru and Kooddoo Fisheries Complexes. In addition, discussions included the practical steps for expanding agricultural activities in Funadhoo, Gaafu Alifu Atoll, and providing technical agricultural training, particularly for MIFCO employees.

Senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture assured MIFCO of full support, including help with identifying and addressing issues related to crops, livestock, and disease management at MIFCO sites. The possibility of offering technical assistance from the ministry to enhance and expand these agricultural facilities was also discussed.

MIFCO noted that farming on its sites reduces food costs for employees and generates revenue through the sale of livestock. The company employs approximately 2,000 individuals.

SOURCE : PSM

Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ahmed Shiyam has announced that the development of fish processing plants in three regions of the Maldives will begin this year. He made this announcement during a ceremony held to launch the revised loan project for installing saltwater fish cooling systems on fishing boats.

During the ceremony, Minister Shiyam highlighted that fishermen often have to sell their catch at unprofitable prices, which is a significant challenge in the fishing industry and leads to financial losses. To address this issue, he emphasised that efforts are underway to ensure fair pricing for fish products and to facilitate profitable exports. The three new processing plants are part of this initiative, with practical work on the facilities set to commence this year.

Minister Shiyam mentioned that currently, about 110 metric tonnes of fish are processed daily. With the new plants, this capacity is expected to rise to approximately 300 metric tonnes, which he believes will enhance income from skipjack tuna.

According to statistics shared by the Minister, successful fish exports can generate between USD 92 million and USD 95 million in revenue. With the establishment of the new factories, he anticipates that this figure could potentially double.

SOURCE : PSM

Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Mohamed Saeed has expressed his aspiration to see Maldivian cuisine featured on international airline menus. He made the remarks during the opening ceremony of Food and Hospitality Asia Maldives (FHAM) 2024.

Highlighting the importance of culinary representation, Minister Saeed noted that airlines typically offer diverse flight menus for both business and economy class passengers, often including dishes from various countries and regions. Despite the growing tourism sector in the Maldives, he pointed out that Maldivian dishes have yet to be incorporated into any airline menus. He encouraged the hospitality sector to take the initiative in promoting local cuisine.

FHAM stands as one of the premier events dedicated to showcasing tourism services and products, drawing numerous individuals and companies from the hospitality industry each year. This year’s event features 120 stalls and has drawn participation from over 600 contestants to the culinary challenge, representing both Maldivian and international entities.

FHAM 2024 is scheduled to take place from 23 to 25 September, running daily from 1000hrs to 1900hrs, with the final day open to the public.

SOURCE : PSM

The Environment Protection Agency (EPA) has permitted the dredging and collection of sand from two areas for the land reclamation of Rasmale’.

The areas for which EPA granted permits are situated to the west of Maafushi, Kaafu Atoll. In addition to these two locations, EPA announced that an area near Ithaafushi Resort is also designated for dredging. EPA issued permits to dredge these locations for a period of six months, to reclaim 562 hectares of land. Housing Development Corporation (HDC) contracted the dredging of these locations to Mohan Mutha Exports Private Limited and China Railway Construction Corporation.

Practical works pertaining to the Rasmale’ Project officially commenced on 18 December. Although the government initially planned to complete the land reclamation of Rasmale’ within ten months, it revealed that adjustments were being made to the plan following unforeseen challenges which caused delays.

The Rasmale’ Project will see the reclamation of 1,153 hectares of land, with plans to accommodate 65,000 housing units. The government stated that Rasmale’ will be developed as an Eco-City, aligning with the government’s vision of sustainable urban growth.

SOURCE : PSM

The Ministry of Education has decided to launch a special programme focused on mental health for school children.

Schools play a crucial role in teaching essential life skills and shaping individuals into successful members of society. One of the most important goals is ensuring that children are mentally healthy and self-confident. The ministry is placing special emphasis on transforming schools into environments where students are prepared to handle life’s challenges. As children grow, their thoughts and perspectives evolve, and various factors within their family and environment can have diverse psychological impacts. To address these issues, the ministry is introducing a comprehensive mental health program to better equip students to face such challenges.

The primary aim of the programme is to help children develop the mental resilience needed to face age-related challenges. The ministry noted that many children struggle to manage emotions such as conflict, anger, and sadness, with some even contemplating self-harm in extreme cases. To address these issues, the programme will be implemented across all government schools and grades. The initiative is designed to help students cope with challenging emotions within the school setting, fostering their mental well-being.

The ministry has announced plans to hire a consultancy firm to support the programme. The project, in collaboration with UNICEF, will also produce educational materials on mental health. Interested organisations are invited to submit their proposals by 1 October 2024.

SOURCE : PSM

Prosecutor General Justice (rtd) Abbas Shareef has emphasised the importance of the Prosecutor General’s Office (PG Office) and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) working towards the same goal, to resolve corruption cases successfully. The remarks were made by the prosecutor general, in a meeting held with ACC President Adam Shamil.

In the meeting held at the ACC, President of ACC Shamil congratulated Justice Abbas on his appointment as Prosecutor General. During the discussion, Justice Abbas reiterated the PG Office’s full support for the ACC’s anti-corruption efforts, emphasising the necessity for both institutions to work collaboratively to successfully resolve court cases. He indicated that the PG Office is prepared to enhance support, including the recruitment of additional prosecutors and investigators, to bolster the investigation of corruption cases. He also urged the ACC to expedite such investigations.

The PG Office disclosed that the ACC contributes to several of the cases filed with the PG Office. As such, five cases from the ACC have been filed with the court after investigations. Additionally, it stated that 11 cases have been submitted by the ACC to the Duty Prosecution.

Since assuming the role of Prosecutor General, Justice Abbas has been engaging individually with senior officials from various institutions within the criminal justice system. He has met with Police Commissioner Ali Shujau on 22 September, as well as with the Attorney General.

SOURCE : PSM

Commissioner of Police Ali Shujau emphasised his commitment to advancing opportunities for women within the Maldives Police Service (MPS). He made these remarks during the Gala Night held in honour of women employees of the MPS, as part of the Maldives Women in Policing Day celebrations.

Speaking at the event held at the Iskandhar Building, Commissioner Shujau expressed pride in the increasing presence of women working across all areas of the MPS. He highlighted that, while women in the past were primarily involved in administrative roles, today they serve in various departments throughout the force. He also noted that women now make up 15% of the police force, with the agency currently working to create more opportunities for their professional growth.

The Maldives Women in Policing Day celebrations were attended by the Commissioner’s spouse, senior police officials, and women officers from different ranks within the service.

SOURCE : PSM