Maldives News Bulletin - Volume 165

Discover latest updates of the Government

Date: October 28, 2024 | Issue 165

Efforts underway to issue USD 12.97 million for tourism: Minister Faisal

Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal has revealed that efforts are underway to make arrangements, such that USD 12.79 million is issued from certain banks to develop tourism, in areas where the tourism industry requires more development. The remarks were made by the minister during the ceremony held to launch “Addu Tourism Brand”.

During the ceremony, Minister Faisal shed light on the challenges such regions face. This includes difficulties in transportation measures and the implementation of tax within the tourism industry. He also pointed out the difficulties in obtaining financing to initiate tourism projects.

To address these issues, Minister Faisal indicated that arrangements are being made to facilitate financial support through certain banks. He noted that providing this assistance at a favourable interest rate would significantly contribute to strengthening the tourism industry and expanding the bed capacity. Emphasising the Maldives’ reputation as a premier tourist destination, he remarked that promoting various locations, despite transportation challenges, would also lead to an increase in tourist arrivals.

Furthermore, Minister Faisal revealed the goal of increasing the bed capacity for tourism nationwide, and increasing youth participation in the industry. This includes increasing youth engagement in restaurants, laundry services, water sports and businesses as well. 

Advancing tourism in regions where the tourism industry requires more development is an aim of the government. To achieve this goal, it has been actively promoting local tourism in each individual atoll.

SOURCE : PSM

The First Lady departs on an official visit to Tanzania 

First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed departed for Tanzania on Sunday evening to attend the 11th “Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary” Annual Conference. The event will host Madam Sajidha Mohamed as one of the Guests of Honour among First Ladies of more than 15 countries. 

The First Lady will participate in the High-Level First Ladies Panel and deliver a keynote address, as well as speak at the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Committee Meeting. 

The 11th Edition of the conference, taking place from October 29-30, 2024, brings together healthcare professionals, policymakers, and academics to discuss topics such as women’s empowerment, disease management, and expanding access to quality healthcare across Africa and Asia.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel sends Independence Day greetings to the Foreign Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Maldives, Dr. Abdulla Khaleel sends message of felicitations to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Consumer Affairs of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Frederick Stephenson on the occasion of the Independence Day of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

Minister’s message reads as follows:

“On behalf of the Government, the people of the Republic of Maldives and on my own behalf, I would like to extend warm felicitations to Your Excellency, the Government and the people of the Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, on the occasion of your Independence Day.

As fellow Small Island Developing States, I am confident that the friendly relations between our nations in areas of mutual interest will continue to strengthen in both bilateral and multilateral arenas.

Let me extend my best wishes for your good health and well-being and for the peace and prosperity of the people of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.

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

SOURCE : Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Amendments proposed for Presidential appointments of ACC and ECM leadership

The Government has proposed amendments aimed at granting the President the authority to appoint the President and Vice-President of the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Elections Commission of the Maldives (ECM).

The amendment to the Anti-Corruption Commission Act was presented by Parliamentarian Adam Zahir on behalf of the Government, while the amendment to the Elections Commission Act was introduced by Parliamentarian Abdullah Shareef. These amendments seek to strengthen the operations of independent commissions and to streamline the appointment process for the President and Vice-President from among the appointed members of each commission.

Under the proposed amendments, the President and Vice-President of the commissions will be selected by the President from the existing members. The names of the nominees must then be submitted to Parliament for consideration and approval. Currently, the appointment of the President and Vice-President of both the ACC and ECM is determined through a voting process among commission members. 

Presently, if the President of either commission wishes to resign, they are required to submit a resignation letter to the commission. Similarly, if the Vice-President intends to resign, they must inform the President of the Commission. The proposed amendments, however, stipulate that any resignation from the President or Vice-President of the commissions must be directed to the President of the Maldives.

SOURCE : PSM

Gov’t imposes price control on medicine

The Government of Maldives has announced its decision to implement measures next month as part of the first phase of an initiative aimed at controlling medicine prices, fulfilling a pledge made by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. The National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) has stated that it will control the prices of 250 medicines during this initial phase.

The Government has recognised that expenditures on pharmaceuticals constitute one of the largest and most wasteful costs within the healthcare system. The national insurance system, managed by Aasandha Company Limited, reports that over half of its expenses are related to the importation of medicines, a figure that continues to rise annually.

In response to this issue, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has mandated measures to prevent the sale of imported medicines at exorbitant profits. He has instructed all relevant authorities to implement necessary actions to curb such profiteering in the pharmaceutical sector.

According to a publication issued by the NSPA, the Government plans to adjust the prices of 87 medicines effective November 1, with changes for an additional 126 medicines to take effect on November 24. This initiative is projected to save the Government approximately USD 14.3 million annually. Importantly, these changes will not affect the Aasandha system, which provides medicines to patients at no cost.

Furthermore, the NSPA has indicated that the price adjustments will lower the costs of previously overpriced medicines. A comprehensive list of the updated medicine prices will be available on Aasandha’s website from the effective date of the changes. The agency encourages all individuals to obtain a receipt when accessing services from Aasandha and to report any instances of medicines listed in the official price list being sold illegally.

SOURCE : PSM

Gov’t in talks with UNRWA on how to spend the telethon proceeds

Ministry of Foreign Affairs has disclosed that the Government of Maldives is in discussions with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) regarding both short- and long-term programs and projects that will benefit the Palestinians from the proceeds of the “Maldivians with Palestine” telethon. This announcement comes at a time when false narratives about the telethon’s proceeds are being circulated.

The Ministry confirmed that it has received a copy of the debit advice and transaction details from JPMorgan Bank, indicating that the telethon’s proceeds were sent to UNRWA on August 20. The statement emphasised that the generous donation from the people of Maldives reflects their support for Palestinian independence and their unwavering solidarity with the country and its people.

Additionally, the Foreign Ministry strongly condemned Israel’s actions against the Palestinian people, characterising them as genocidal and in violation of international law and humanitarian principles.

SOURCE : PSM

Gov’t completes energy projects in 32 Islands

Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy has revealed that energy initiatives in 32 islands have been fully completed, while work is currently ongoing in various phases on 117 islands.

The Ministry reported that enhancements to the powerhouses in two islands were completed within the past 11 months, and upgrades to 12 additional powerhouses are underway. Furthermore, 1.9 megawatt-hour battery energy storage systems have been installed in five islands, and a system generating 2.5 megawatt-hours from solar energy has been implemented in 12 islands of Thaa Atoll.

Despite all islands receiving electricity around-the-clock, the powerhouses in many of these locations are not equipped to provide sufficient electricity at all times. To address this issue, the Government has been exerting efforts to address this issue, and ensure the efficient provision of electricity across the nation.

The Government has launched the ‘Magey Solar Programme’, aiming to reduce electricity costs and promote the efficient use of energy resources in the Maldives. In addition to this initiative, there is a massive effort to upgrade power grids and networks in the islands. 

The Government aims to transform the Maldives in to a country which generated 33 percent of its energy from renewable energy sources. To achieve this, research works are being carried out to generate electricity from wind and hydro-energy sources, while expanding electricity production from solar energy. Several new energy initiatives are also in the pipeline for the islands in the near future.

SOURCE : PSM

Ministry of Housing to announce land details via SMS and Hiyavahi Portal

The Ministry of Housing, Land, and Urban Development has announced that information regarding the land selected in the lottery will be made available via SMS and through the Hiyavahi portal.

The lottery draw for the plots will take place on Tuesday at 0900 hours in the Dharubaruge Rannabandeyri Hall. This draw will include participants who have previously received land under the Binveriya Scheme, as well as individuals who have already allocated plots, those yet to receive their allocations, and those who have transferred land from Giravarufalhu to Gulhifalhu.

Additionally, the Ministry has released a list categorizing all land recipients in connection with the lottery. A total of 3,520 plots will be allocated, including 669 plots of 1,250 square meters, 1,234 plots of 1,650 square meters, 916 plots of 2,050 square meters, 473 plots of 2,450 square meters, 158 plots of 2,850 square meters, 49 plots of 3,250 square meters, and 21 plots of 3,650 square meters. The list of beneficiaries has been compiled according to the form number assigned to each box, and the draw will proceed in the order of this list. Successful recipients will receive notifications regarding their allocated land via SMS and through the Hiyavahi portal.

Access to the draw hall will be permitted during the event. Should an individual wish to attend on behalf of the landlord, they must present a letter of no objection from the landlord, along with a copy of their identification card. Furthermore, the Ministry stated that comprehensive details of the approved land use plan, including block numbers, plot numbers, and lot allocation plans, will be accessible on the Hiyavahi portal.

SOURCE : PSM

Agriculture Minister says 57% of registered farmers in Maldives are women

Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Dr. Aishath Rameela has announced that 57 percent of registered farmers in the Maldives are women. She shared this information during the CFS Guidelines on Gender Equality and Women and Girls Empowerment forum, part of the Committee on World Food Security, held in Rome from October 21 to 25.

Minister Rameela highlighted the Maldives’ ongoing efforts to enhance women’s roles in agriculture and food security, emphasising their crucial contributions to local food production, including tree cultivation and the sale of agricultural products. However, she pointed out that securing financial assistance remains a significant challenge for women in agriculture. To address this, the Government has allocated 30 percent of its Farmers’ Profit Loan Program specifically for women farmers.

Despite national policies aimed at empowering women, Minister Rameela acknowledged that many women are still hesitant to engage in matters of national importance or fully access economic opportunities. She stressed the importance of increasing women’s participation in building a robust and equitable food system in the Maldives, urging them to take the initiative in developing and enhancing the country’s agricultural landscape.

The Minister also explained that international organizations like UNDP and IFAD are working to provide women with access to technical and financial resources, supporting their leadership in food production.

SOURCE : PSM

Supplementary Budget Committee summons Finance Minister

The Supplementary Budget Committee has approved to summon Finance Minister Moosa Zameer before the committee. During today’s meeting, the committee also passed to summon Governor of the Maldives Monetary Authority Ahmed Munawwar and Auditor General Hussain Niyazi. The three officials are scheduled to attend a meeting to discuss the budget Monday at 14:00 hrs.

The motion for their summons was unanimously passed by the committee members present. Parliamentarian Ibrahim Shujau introduced the motion to summon the Finance Minister, the Governor, and the Auditor General for a questioning session. He also proposed that voting on the budget should take place following this session, and these proposals were unanimously approved by the committee.

Additionally, Parliamentarian Ali Fazad has been appointed as the Chairman of the Supplementary Budget Committee, with Parliamentarian Ahmed Saleem serving as Vice-Chairman.

The Government has presented a supplementary budget of USD 332 million to Parliament. Minister of Finance Moosa Zameer submitted this budget to cover state expenses, detailing USD 97.3 million for recurrent costs and USD 227 million for capital expenditures.

SOURCE : PSM

“International support vital to protect the biodiversity of Maldives”

Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy Thoriq Ibrahim has underscored the crucial importance of international unity and support to protect the biodiversity of the Maldives. The remarks were made by the Minister during a meeting held with the Executive Secretary of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Astrid Schomaker. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 16th Conference of the Parties (COP16).

The discussions primarily focused on the advantages and disadvantages of implementing the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. Minister Thoriq also shed light on the Maldives’ efforts in protecting and preserving biodiversity, and the challenges encountered. The minister highlighted the necessity for international support in protecting the biodiversity of the Maldives. 

Furthermore, Minister Thoriq met with the Executive Director of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Inger Andersen. Noting that the meeting with the executive director was productive, the minister emphasised the key role UNEP plays, in the efforts exerted by the Maldives to protect the environment. 

The COP16 of the CBD is being held in Cali City in Colombia, from October 21 to November 1. Minister Thoriq departed to participate in this conference on October 24. A total of 196 countries participated in the COP16. 

The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy has stated that discussions will be held to review the convention and to discuss potential measures which can be implemented to protect endangered species. Efforts will also be exerted to review the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which was drafted in 2022, and ensure that the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan of countries participating in the convention, aligns with the framework.

SOURCE : PSM

Chief Justice Shaheed says accessible resources crucial for effective justice system

Chief Justice Hussain Shaheed of the High Court has emphasised that the benefits of the state justice system can only be realised if both human and structural resources are accessible to all state entities. He made these remarks during the launch of the High Court’s Strategic Action Plan 2025-2027.

In his address, Chief Justice Shaheed reflected on the court’s evolution as an appellate court over its 44-year history, attributing this growth to efforts aimed at strengthening judicial processes. He acknowledged the disparity between the public’s expectations for an orderly trial process, swift access to justice, and modern technological integration, and the current realities of the judicial system. He stressed that it is the High Court’s responsibility to meet these expectations.

The newly launched Strategic Action Plan aims to enhance the court’s operations through effective case management, fostering public confidence in the justice system, and modernizing processes in collaboration with sector partners. Chief Justice Shaheed announced plans to establish an e-High Court to facilitate a paperless environment and create a capable team to improve the working atmosphere.

He also reported that efforts to modernize the court’s administrative structure have commenced, with a new structure submitted for approval to the relevant authorities. Acknowledging the challenges posed by legal changes, he urged that court perspectives should be considered during law design, while also highlighting budgetary constraints and administrative hurdles.

The High Court serves as the primary appellate court for cases decided by 187 Magistrate Courts across 20 atolls, as well as five Superior Courts and tribunals in Male’.

SOURCE : PSM

Maldives appointed as CATA Regional Director

Maldives Inland Revenue Authority (MIRA) has announced the that Maldives has been appointed to the Management Committee of the Commonwealth Association of Tax Administrators (CATA) and the Regional Director of CATA’s Asia region. MIRA said that the appointment was made during the 23rd Annual General Meeting (AGM) of CATA, held in Mauritius, East Africa. The AGM was held from October 21-25.

The Maldives was appointed to the Management Committee twice previously, with MIRA fulfilling the role of the Regional Director during the previous tenure. The Maldives was first appointed to the committee in 2012. 

Established in 1978, CATA aims to develop effective tax administration in its 47 member countries through knowledge sharing of best practices, conferences, training programmes and publications. It is now one of the biggest organisations at a global scale. The conference was held in the Maldives in 2023. 

This year’s Annual Technical Conference of CATA, saw a voting session take place to elect a chairman and a president for the organisation. While Malaysia was elected as the President of CATA, Mauritius was elected as the Chairman.

SOURCE : PSM

Air Arabia commences scheduled flights to the Maldives

Air Arabia, from the United Arab Emirates (UAE), have officially commenced scheduled flights to the Maldives. Air Arabia will operate flights between Sharjah International Airport and Velana International Airport (VIA), utilising A-320 aircrafts. 

The first Air Arabia flight to arrive at VIA was welcomed with a water salute, in a special ceremony held to mark the commencement of the scheduled flights. Senior officials from Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) and Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) were also present at the event, to welcome the flight. MACL revealed that the commencement of the scheduled flights from Air Arabia, and the new route, would increase the connectivity of VIA, as well as the market across the Middle East region. 

In an interview with PSM News, Managing Director of MMPRC Ibrahim Shiuree also emphasised that the flights would play a pivotal role in increasing the tourist arrival from the Middle East. It would also pave the path to collaborate with the airlines, to conduct marketing activities. 

While over 40 airlines operate scheduled flights to the Maldives, the Government has an overarching goal of welcoming 2 million tourists. To this date, 1.6 million tourists have visited the Maldives. The government is optimistic that its goal can be achieved during mid-December.

SOURCE : PSM