Maldives News Bulletin - Volume 163

Discover latest updates of the Government

Date: October 25-26, 2024 | Issue 163

Vice President attends official opening ceremony of Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2024

Vice President His Excellency Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef attended the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2024 on Friday. The head of the Commonwealth, His Majesty King Charles III, and delegations from Commonwealth nations attended the ceremony.

The Maldives delegation accompanied the Vice President to the ceremony. It included His Excellency Dr Abdulla Khaleel, Minister of Foreign Affairs; His Excellency Mr Abdulla Rafiu, Minister of Sports, Fitness and Recreation; and Her Excellency Dr Iruthisham Adam, High Commissioner of Maldives to the UK.

The Prime Minister of Samoa, Hon. Fiamē Naomi Mata’afa, officially welcomed delegates to the CHOGM. The Vice President also participated in the official family photograph of delegation heads attending CHOGM 2024.

Commonwealth leaders gather for the CHOGM every two years, hosted by different member countries. This year, the CHOGM is being held in a Small Island Developing State (SIDS) in the Pacific for the first time. The theme of CHOGM 2024 is ‘One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth’.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

Foreign Minister states that the UN was the changed that offered hope 

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel has stated that the United Nations was the answer to a call for action to heal divisions and build peace. In a special message delivered on United Nations Day, Dr Khaleel described the UN as the change that offered people hope and made the world better. 

He said that the Charter of the United Nations, which entered into force seventy-nine years ago today, serves as a path for a world where peace and security, human rights, the rule of law, and sustainable development prevail. He added that these principles endure even today and remain an anchor for cooperation and solidarity. 

Noting that the Maldives has been a firm believer in the multilateral system from the start, Minister Khaleel said the UN platform affords Small Island Developing States (SIDS) such as the Maldives the opportunity to voice their needs and concerns. 

He called on the United Nations to be ready to step up and put meaning to its words and actions. He expressed the need for a United Nations that can boldly act against Israel’s genocidal acts in Palestine. 

He expressed hope that the United Nations will continue to deliver for its member States – “we the peoples”.

SOURCE : Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Maldives is deeply committed to promoting good governance and strengthening democratic norms, says the Vice President

Vice President His Excellency Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef has stated that the Maldives is deeply committed to promoting good governance and strengthening democratic norms. The Vice President intervened in the Executive Session of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

Stressing that democracy, human rights, peace, tolerance, and respect for diversity are the pillars upon which societies thrive, the Vice President said these values foster understanding and reinforce the rule of law and good governance.

The Vice President also noted the Maldives’ commitment to building a robust democratic system, demonstrated by the successful completion of four cycles of free and fair presidential, parliamentary, and local council elections.

Expressing his gratitude to the Commonwealth Secretariat for its pivotal role in election observation, the Vice President recommended strengthening the Commonwealth’s electoral support by training election officials and institutions, developing a comprehensive plan for a whole-of-election-cycle approach, expediting election observation reports, and providing technical assistance to implement the recommendations of these Observer Groups.

The Vice President also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to engage with the Commonwealth to strengthen democratic institutions.

The Vice President is in Samoa, leading the Maldives delegation attending CHOGM 2024.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

Foreign Minister Dr. Khaleel calls for collective action on resilience and climate action at the Pre-CHOGM Commonwealth Foreign Ministers’ Meeting

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel, participated in the Pre-CHOGM Commonwealth Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on the margins of the Commonwealth Heads of the Government Meeting.

During Minister Dr Khaleel’s intervention, he reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to championing the priorities of Small Island Developing States, emphasising the importance of resilient societies, solid democratic institutions, and resilient economies. He urged more vital Commonwealth collaboration in scaling climate finance and implementing the Antigua and Barbuda Agenda for Small Island Developing States (ABAS), focusing on economic resilience and debt sustainability. He further underscored the urgent need to protect democratic values and vulnerable communities in the face of global conflicts. Minister Dr Khaleel thanked the Commonwealth for the assistance provided to the Maldives on all fronts and assured that the Maldives is committed to strengthening the relationship with the Commonwealth and upholding the values and principles of the Commonwealth.

The Pre-CHOGM Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting held before the official commencement of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting remains an essential platform for Commonwealth Foreign Ministers to engage and foster partnerships for shared prosperity for all Commonwealth nations.

SOURCE : Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Foreign Minister Dr. Khaleel sends Republic Day greetings to the Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel congratulated Murat Nurtleu, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan, on their Republic Day.

The Minister extended felicitations and sincere good wishes to his counterpart, the Government and the people of Kazakhstan.

He also expressed hope that the friendly relations between the two countries would be further strengthened for the mutual benefit of our people.

SOURCE : Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Applications for the ‘Magey Solar Programme’ to open on Monday

The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy will commence the application process for solar system installations in households under the ‘Magey Solar Programme’ on Monday. 

This programme aims to reduce electricity costs and promote the efficient use of energy resources in the Maldives. Applications can be submitted through the Fenaka Corporation website, and the order of submissions can determine eligibility.

Previously, 748 households successfully installed solar systems. The size of the solar PV systems will be based on a net metering survey, offering both 3 kW and 5 kW options. 

No advance payment is required for installation, but a fee will be payable upon signing the contract. A 3kW system costs USD 2,929, while a 5kW system costs USD 4,883.

The Magey Solar Program is a crucial initiative in the government’s goal to reduce carbon emissions and switch to renewable power sources.

SOURCE : PSM

Foreign Minister and UN Resident Coordinator issue joint statement on the occasion of United Nations Day

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel and UN Resident Coordinator Mr Enrico Gaveglia have issued a joint statement on United Nations Day. 

In the statement, they reflected on nearly six decades of enduring partnership, collaboration, and commitment to the universal ideals of peace, security, human rights, and sustainable development.

Noting that the Maldives and the United Nations have enjoyed a fruitful and impactful partnership since 1965, they highlighted the Maldives’ role at the UN. They stressed the Maldives’ remarkable prowess on the international stage, assuming a key role in global climate advocacy, promoting and protecting human rights, and advancing multilateral cooperation. 

Highlighting that the United Nations Secretary-General’s call in the Pact of the Future, adopted during the Summit of the Future, outlines decisive actions and multilateral solutions, they reiterated the Maldives’ resolute commitment to the pact. 

They also announced that throughout 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the United Nations, will undertake several commemorative events aimed at celebrating shared accomplishments and highlighting the vital contributions of the Maldives to promoting peace, prosperity, and sustainable development for all.

This anniversary is a poignant reminder of the indispensable importance of multilateralism and the vital role of the Maldives in shaping a more equitable, just, and resilient future. 

SOURCE : Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Maldives condemns the use of water and food as war weapons

Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, Dr Aishath Rameela, has stated that obstructing access to water and food for any purpose, including war, is entirely unacceptable. She made these remarks at the Committee on World Food Security meeting in Rome, Italy.

The Maldivian minister called for an end to using water and food as weapons in conflict zones. She expressed her support for Kuwait’s proposal, which urges the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and other relevant international agencies to collaborate in providing essential services—such as food, water, and medical care—to the Palestinian people in Gaza.

Minister Dr Rameela emphasised in her speech that access to water and food is a fundamental human right. She reiterated that denying these necessities is intolerable, whether for military or other objectives. The Minister confirmed that the Maldives fully supports including Kuwait’s proposal in the committee report.

During the meeting, most countries supported Kuwait’s proposal, and no nation directly opposed it. Consequently, the committee chairperson included the proposal in the official report.

SOURCE : PSM

MNDF announces opportunity to attend US military academies

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has announced an opportunity for interested candidates to participate in courses at four prestigious US military academies: the United States Air Force Academy, the United States Coast Guard Academy, the United States Military Academy, and the United States Naval Academy. Students will attend these courses under the supervision of the MNDF.

The courses are scheduled to begin in June next year and will last four years, culminating in a Bachelor’s degree. Each academy will admit six candidates.

To qualify, applicants must meet several requirements: they must be under 23 years old by July 1 of next year, not be married, have completed A levels, and pass a fitness exam that assesses both mental and physical fitness. Additionally, candidates are required to take either the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) or the American College Testing (ACT) exam, which may be completed after applying for admission.

Interested individuals can obtain the application form from the MNDF website and submit it to MNDF Headquarters or via email at [email protected]. The deadline for applications is November 7. Further details about the courses can be found in the Government Gazette and on the official websites of the academies.

SOURCE : PSM

Tourism development in Laamu Atoll discussed with Indian High Commissioner

Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal has discussed tourism development opportunities in Baresdhoo and Gaadhoo in Laamu Atoll with the Indian High Commissioner to the Maldives, Munu Mahawar.

In a social media post, Minister Faisal indicated that he and the Indian High Commissioner visited Baresdhoo and Gaadhoo as part of the High Commissioner’s tour of Laamu Atoll. He noted that discussions focused on the potential of these areas as key sites for tourism development, aiming to unlock new opportunities for growth while preserving the islands’ natural beauty and heritage.

The High Commissioner’s tour comes when both countries are working to strengthen trade relations. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s recent state visit to India resulted in the signing of five agreements to enhance cooperation between the Maldives and India, including a currency swap agreement. The President also participated in business forums in Delhi, Agra, Mumbai, and Bangalore.

The Maldivian government is committed to expanding tourism nationwide to enhance its economic benefits. Plans are underway to attract investors to less developed tourism areas, with Minister Faisal announcing investor forums in Singapore, Thailand, and Dubai to facilitate this initiative.

SOURCE : PSM

Maldives establishes first health ever medical waste handling facility in Baarah

For the first time in the Maldives, a medical waste handling facility has been established at the Health Centre in Baarah, Haa Alif Atoll. The facility was funded by the Global Environment Facility and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy has transferred the facility to the Ministry of Health, aiming to implement best practices for health waste disposal at the island level and safeguard the community from related environmental impact.

Minister of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy Thoriq Ibrahim emphasised the importance of reducing reliance on incineration for medical waste disposal, as it releases toxic gases. He advocated for adopting environmentally friendly technologies, such as autoclaving, and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to public health and environmental protection.

Additionally, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the two ministries to provide an ICP-MS machine for testing heavy metals, thereby enhancing the National Health Laboratory’s capabilities. Minister Thoriq and Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim signed the agreement.

The ICP-MS machine will detect heavy metals in soil, sediments, and blood, facilitating research on the health effects of pollution. The Ministry of Environment will supply the necessary reagents by the end of the year. Furthermore, the Environment Minister noted that interim hazardous chemical waste storage facilities will be established in Addu City and Vandhoo, Raa Atoll.

SOURCE : PSM

Maldives candidate Justice Shujune re-elected for a 4th term at the UN Subcommittee on the Prevention of Torture

The Maldives candidate, Honourable Aisha Shujune Muhammad, Justice of the Supreme Court of the Maldives, has been elected to the UN Subcommittee on the Prevention of Torture and Other Inhumane or Degrading Treatment or Punishment for the term 2025 to 2028 during the elections held today in Geneva. Justice Shujune received the highest number of votes in the election. 

Justice Shujune will assume her role on the Subcommittee for the fourth time since her initial election in 2010, having previously served the previous term from 2021 to 2024. She also served two consecutive terms from 2011 to 2018, during which she held the positions of Rapporteur and Vice-Chair of Jurisdiction. 

Justice Shujune emerged victorious in a competitive field of 14 candidates vying for 12 seats. Her extensive experience within civil society and the judiciary, particularly in torture elimination and human rights protection, underscores her qualifications for this role. 

This year, the Maldives marks 19 years since joining the Optional Protocol to the Convention Against Torture (OPCAT). 

The Maldives was the first State party from Asia and one of the original twenty State parties to join.

The UN Subcommittee on Prevention of Torture is the largest human rights treaty body of the United Nations. It is an international body established by the OPCAT comprising 25 independent experts.

SOURCE : Ministry of Foreign Affairs

MNU and MNSDA join hands to develop certificate-level courses in strata management

Maldives National University (MNU) and the Maldives National Skills Development Authority (MNSDA) have formally agreed to develop certificate-level courses in strata management.

The agreement aims to equip young individuals with the necessary skills in strata management. It was signed by Dr Aishath Shehnaz Adam, Vice Chancellor of MNU, and Zahra Mohamed, CEO of MNSDA.

Zahra emphasised the pressing need for trained professionals in strata management and noted that President Mohamed Muizzu has prioritised the implementation of these courses. She also mentioned that MNSDA currently offers 165 programs, with plans to introduce 18 diploma programs by the end of the year.

This initiative follows a similar course conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing earlier this year. It marks the first time certificate-level courses in building management are being offered. The World Bank’s Enhancing Employability and Resilience for Youth (MIRI) project designed and funded the program.

SOURCE : PSM

Applications now open for Maldives Tourism Awards

Nominations for the Maldives Tourism Awards are now open, with the deadline set for November 14.

The Maldives Tourism Awards, which recognise resorts, hotels, guesthouses, safaris, and travel agencies, will present 23 awards across five categories. Applications must be submitted online and evaluated based on activities conducted from June 1, 2023, to May 31, 2024.

The Maldives Tourism Awards aim to recognise outstanding contributions by individuals and companies in the tourism sector.

SOURCE : PSM

Immigration launch operation to track undocumented migrant workers in Guraidhoo

Maldives Immigration launches an operation in Guraidhoo Island to tackle the issue of undocumented migrant workers. The operation will be conducted in collaboration with the Maldives Police Service and other relevant authorities.

Maldives Immigration aims to identify undocumented migrant workers and illegal foreign businesses in the islands and take legal action against them. This marks the first time such an operation has been conducted by the immigration authorities outside the capital, Male’.

Controller General of Immigration Mohammed Shamman Waheed announced plans to expand the operation to other atolls within the next three years to address the issue of foreign nationals in the Maldives.

The Controller General of Immigration has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing illegal immigration within the next three years and urged businesses to refrain from collaborating with undocumented migrant workers or harbouring individuals without proper documentation.

SOURCE : PSM