Maldives News Bulletin - Volume 168

The President announces outstanding payments to fishermen have been transferred to MIFCO

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced that all outstanding payments owed to fishermen have been transferred to the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO).

In a statement on his official ‘X’ account, the President highlighted ongoing efforts to implement a system that ensures sustainable payments to fishermen within 48 hours, in line with the Dhiveheenge Raajje Manifesto.

A key objective of this manifesto is to guarantee that fishermen receive their payments promptly after their catch is weighed.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

First Lady Madam Sajidha meets the First Lady of The Gambia

First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed met with the First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia, Her Excellency Mrs. Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, on Wednesday afternoon. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 11th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary Annual Conference.

First Lady Madam Sajidha and The Gambian First Lady discussed issues of mutual interest, focusing on ways to build closer community connections and closing critical public needs gaps. They also discussed the causes championed by the Merck Foundation and spoke extensively on strengthening collaborative efforts with the Foundation to address challenges faced in Asian and African communities, agreeing that women worldwide face similar issues regardless of their nationalities.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

Hajj and Umrah services should prioritise religious merit over business: Vice President

Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef has stated that companies providing Hajj and Umrah services should prioritise the religious merit and rewards over business interests. He made these remarks whilst delivering his speech at the opening of the Maldives’ first Hajj and Umrah Conference.

At the inaugural session of this conference, which brings together Hajj and Umrah service providers under one roof for consultation, he noted that holding such a conference in the Maldives today is clear evidence of the Government’s efforts to strengthen this sector. He also highlighted President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s emphasis on arranging and facilitating convenient, high-quality Hajj and Umrah services.

The Vice President expressed confidence that in light of the conference’s outcomes, the Hajj and Umrah service sector would expand and the entire system would be improved. He further expressed hope that pilgrim funds would be better protected, the Hajj fund would be developed and revitalised with new thinking, and the Government’s policy of reducing Hajj costs would become a reality.

The Hajj and Umrah Conference is structured to include panel discussions and keynote speakers related to Hajj and Umrah. The panel discussions are set to feature representatives from various institutions related to Hajj and Umrah, as well as religious scholars. 

SOURCE : The President’s Office

Vice President affirms the Administration’s commitment to independent journalism

Vice President Uz Hussain Mohamed Latheef has reaffirmed the Administration’s commitment to independent journalism, stating that the Administration will extend full support to journalists and journalism.

He made the statement in his address at the 11th Journalism Awards. The Vice President said that relevant agencies are working tirelessly to fulfill the pledges on empowering media, made in the Dhivehinge Raajje manifesto. He added that this Administration placed the highest importance on empowering media and journalists.

Reflecting on the modern media space, the Vice President appealed to journalists to verify the accuracy of information sources, present balanced views, and fulfill their obligations truthfully and with accountability, especially considering modern tools such as artificial intelligence. He also called on journalists to uphold Dhivehi language norms and utilise media to uplift citizens. The Vice President further stressed on the need to create more talented journalists from schools, colleges, universities.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel inaugurates “The Project for Strengthening Capacity of Border Control for Responding to Infectious Diseases in Southwest Asia”

Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel participated as Chief Guest at the inauguration of “The Project for Strengthening Capacity of Border Control for Responding to Infectious Diseases in Southwest Asia” held at Velana International Airport on 30 October 2024.

The initiative, organised by the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) with funding from the Government of Japan, aims to enhance public health security at critical Points of Entry in the Maldives, strengthening the nation’s preparedness against infectious disease threats in the region.

Speaking at the event, Minister Khaleel thanked the partners of the project and emphasised that this project represents not only immediate safety enhancements but also a long-term commitment to achieving developed status by 2040. He highlighted the importance of economic resilience in reaching this milestone whilst noting that strengthening border health capacity will ensure the smooth operation of airports, which are vital gateways to economic stability and growth.

This collaborative venture between the Maldives, Japan, and IOM underscores the significance of building trust, confidence, and capacity within the public health framework. 

Minister Khaleel was joined by IOM Chief of Mission Kristin Parco, Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives Takeuchi Midori, and other representatives of the Government and the agencies involved in the projects. 

SOURCE : Ministry of Foreign Affairs

First Lady reaffirms commitment to addressing Non-Communicable Diseases

First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed expressed her commitment to leveraging her role as the Maldives’ First Lady to address rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the Maldives. She made these remarks during her intervention at the Merck Foundation First Ladies Initiative (MFFLI) Committee Meeting on Wednesday, held as part of the 11th Edition of the Merck Foundation Africa Asia Luminary Annual Conference.

Noting that NCDs contribute to alarmingly high mortality rates in the Maldives, the First Lady stressed that these diseases now present one of the country’s most critical health challenges that demand both enhanced healthcare capacity and community awareness. She highlighted that the Maldives currently faces a shortage of specialists, especially in fields such as oncology.

Building on this, First Lady Madam Sajidha underscored the need for external support to bridge these gaps. She also addressed challenges in reproductive health, particularly the social and emotional difficulties Maldivian couples face surrounding infertility.

Commending the Merck Foundation’s campaigns as a source of inspiration, the First Lady praised the unity and shared learning among First Ladies at the conference, expressing her eagerness to apply the insights gained to strengthen the Maldives’ healthcare sector.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

Maldives receives medical equipment to boost border health capacity

The Government of Japan, in collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), has donated medical equipment to enhance the Maldives’ border health capacity. The equipment was handed over during a ceremony at Velana International Airport, attended by Foreign Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel and Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) Managing Director Ibrahim Shareef.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Khaleel emphasised the vital role of airports in disease control, reflecting on lessons from COVID-19 regarding the need for health emergency preparedness. He noted that the donated equipment aims to improve safety for both Maldivians and visitors by strengthening health screenings and minimising physical contact, ultimately supporting tourism.

MACL Managing Director Shareef highlighted that the equipment would aid in border health management as the airport expansion project increases passenger capacity to 7.5 million annually. The donated items include a digital full-body scanner, a fully equipped ambulance, vehicles for Port Health, and various medical supplies, with a total project cost of USD 8.4 million.

SOURCE : PSM

Government shifts strategy following UK’s cession of Chagos Islands to Mauritius

Attorney General Ahmed Usham has announced that the UK’s decision to cede sovereignty over the Chagos Islands to Mauritius has prompted a shift in the Maldives’ Government strategy. 

Speaking at a press conference at the President’s Office, the AG outlined plans to seek a review of the Mauritius case at the International Tribunal on the Law of the Sea (ITLOS).

The Government has hired experts and formed a committee to oversee this effort. Under international law, countries claim a 200-mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) around their waters. Mauritius is asserting its claim over the southern Chagos Islands, a move the Maldives contends has led to a loss of its economic zone due to prior Government advocacy.

Attorney General Usham emphasised the need for a re-evaluation of the Maldives’ approach in light of the UK’s decision. He noted that the Government is currently drafting a report with international experts and consulting with a team of lawyers, although it remains uncertain when the report will be finalised or when the case will be presented.

The policy adopted by the previous Government appears to contradict the Constitution and laws of the Maldives, prompting a review by the Attorney General’s Office.

SOURCE : PSM

Auditor General’s report on public expenditure to be completed in two weeks

Attorney General Ahmed Usham has disclosed that the Auditor General’s report on public expenditure over the past few years is expected to be completed within two weeks. He shared this update during a press conference at the President’s Office.

The report addresses the Government’s spending of USD 130 million beyond the budget approved by Parliament during the previous Administration. The AG has previously noted that while billions were expended, these funds were not properly accounted for in the Finance Ministry’s system.

The AG further stated that a decision on the findings will be made once the Auditor General’s report is released, adding that all necessary information is now in hand. He also emphasised the Government’s commitment to rectify any mistakes in State account management and to amend laws to prevent similar issues in the future.

SOURCE : PSM

Finance Ministry to sell T-Bills worth USD 78 million

The Ministry of Finance has announced the upcoming sale of Treasury bills (T-bills) totalling USD 78 million to support Government expenditures. 

The issuance comprises four separate T-bills: a USD 15.3 million T-bill maturing in 28 days, a USD 29.8 million T-bill maturing in 98 days, a USD 11.9 million T-bill maturing in 182 days, and a USD 22.9 million T-bill maturing in 364 days.

The interest rates for these T-bills range from 3.50% to 4.60%, with the sale scheduled for November 4. 

T-bills are short-term financial instruments issued at discounted prices in local currency, with the face value paid back at maturity. While this structure benefits investors, it does not directly benefit the State. The primary purchasers of these T-bills include banks, the Maldives Pension Administration Office, and various public and private companies.

Additionally, the Government has submitted proposed amendments to Parliament aimed at boosting revenue. These amendments would affect three key pieces of legislation: the Value Added Tax Act, the Maldives Tourism Act, and the Maldives Airport Tax and Fees Act, resulting in increases to the Tourism Goods and Services Tax (TGST), green tax, and airport development tax and fees.

According to the Finance Ministry, if approved, these amendments are expected to generate an additional USD 169 million in revenue and contribute up to a 3% annual increase in national productivity or GDP.

SOURCE : PSM

New amendments to guarantee legal powers for commission leaders: AG

Attorney General Ahmed Usham has stated that the new amendments proposed to the Anti-Corruption Commission Act and the Elections Commission Act will ensure that the Presidents and Vice Presidents of these commissions are guaranteed their legally conferred powers.

Speaking at a press conference at the President’s Office, Attorney General Usham observed that the Presidents and Vice Presidents of certain independent institutions are elected after their names are submitted to Parliament for approval. He noted that the proposed amendments will alter the existing system, which currently requires the commission’s President and Vice President to be elected through a voting process among commission members.

The AG pointed out that the current legislation has created challenges for the Presidents and Vice Presidents of the commissions in fulfilling their legally mandated responsibilities. He emphasised that ensuring similar operations across independent commissions is one of the key reasons for introducing the amendments.

Responding to criticism of the amendments, Attorney General Usham clarified that they aim to enhance 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. He highlighted that the previous Administration had made attempts to undermine the authority of commission members. The AG further reiterated President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s commitment that his Government will refrain from implementing any amendments that could influence the independence of these commissions. 

SOURCE : PSM

MMPRC announces nationwide landmark design competition

Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has unveiled plans for a nationwide competition to design landmarks across the archipelago, including prominent sites at Velana International Airport, Male’ City, and underwater locations.

The initiative, aimed at enhancing tourist experiences whilst showcasing local artistic talent, invites Maldivian citizens aged 18 and above to submit designs that capture the essence of the destination’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

Ten winning designs will be selected through a combination of expert panel assessment and public voting. Each winner will receive MVR 20,000 and a sponsored gift package, with their designs featured in MMPRC’s marketing campaigns.

Designers must adhere to strict sustainability guidelines, with structures limited to 20 feet in height. Each submission should reflect the distinctive characteristics of its intended location, incorporating local history and cultural elements.

Visit Maldives aims to highlight the nation’s artistic talent through this landmark design competition, with winning designs set to enhance the islands’ aesthetic appeal. The landmarks will serve as symbols of Maldivian creativity and cultural heritage, attracting tourists whilst strengthening the country’s ‘Sunny Side of Life’ brand in the global tourism market.

Entries must be submitted to [email protected] by 18:00 on 30 November 2024. Submissions require CAD and PDF format designs, alongside a completed application form and valid National ID.

SOURCE : Visit Maldives

Government delivers 99 vehicles to over 75 islands

The Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy has announced that 99 vehicles have been delivered to more than 75 islands since the Government took office. 

The Ministry disclosed that it has provided various islands with 57 glass-crushing machines and 72 waste reduction tools, along with 201 hand trucks of different types. To date, mechanical composters designed to convert waste into plant food have been installed on four islands, with plans underway to implement the system on six more. The Ministry is also training locals in waste management, with 14 individuals from seven islands scheduled to travel to New Delhi for specialised training.

Waste management remains a significant challenge on many islands across the Maldives, but the Government is actively working to address this issue. As part of this initiative, the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment and Energy is focusing on the construction of regional waste management centres, with the aim of developing facilities in three different regions of the country.

SOURCE : PSM

Committee of the Whole House passes amendments to GST Act and Tourism Act

The Committee of the Whole House has approved amendments to the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Act, the Maldives Tourism Act, and the Taxes and Fees on Passengers Departing from an Airport Act. The amendment to the Goods and Services Tax Act received 68 votes in favour, while the other two amendments were approved with 67 votes each.

Under the new measures, the green tax for tourism service providers and guesthouses with fewer than 50 rooms will increase from USD 3 to USD 6 per tourist. For resorts, the tax will rise from USD 6 to USD 12 per tourist, effective 1st January 2025, with children under the age of two exempt from this tax.

The Tourism Goods and Services Tax (TGST) will increase from 16% to 17%, projected to generate an extra USD 13.2 million for the state, effective 1st June 2025.

For airport development taxes and fees on foreign travellers, the fee for economy class passengers will rise from USD 30 to USD 50, while business class fares will increase from USD 50 to USD 120. First-class fares will increase from USD 90 to USD 240, and fees for private jets will rise from USD 120 to USD 480.

These changes are part of the Government’s fiscal reform agenda, with the Ministry of Finance estimating an overall revenue increase of USD 169 million.

SOURCE : PSM

Visit Dharavandhoo Year 2025 officially launched

Visit Dharavandhoo Year 2025 was officially launched on 30 October 2024, unveiling an ambitious programme to showcase the island’s cultural heritage and natural attractions as part of a broader initiative to boost local tourism in the Maldives.

The launch ceremony, held on the island, featured traditional music and dance performances by local students and youth groups, highlighting the community’s cultural vibrancy.

Situated in Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Dharavandhoo offers visitors access to the renowned Hanifaru Bay, famous for its manta rays and whale sharks, alongside authentic Maldivian cultural experiences.

“Visit Dharavandhoo Year 2025 is a celebration of our island’s unique culture and biodiversity, combined with a focus on responsible tourism,” said Sameeh Ali, President of Dharavandhoo Council. “We believe this campaign will attract travellers looking for unique experiences, supporting our local economy and environment, laying a foundation for years to come.”

The campaign’s calendar includes workshops, an underwater coral park, cultural festivals and a Manta Festival. A conservation project establishing a Manta Centre is also planned, alongside eco-tourism activities and partnerships with local businesses.

Visitors will have opportunities to participate in guided marine tours, Maldivian cooking classes, traditional music performances and island-hopping excursions.

The initiative emphasises sustainable tourism practices, ensuring visitors can experience the Maldives’ beauty whilst contributing to its preservation. Further details will be announced through official channels as the campaign unfolds, inviting both international and domestic travellers to be part of this special year.

SOURCE : Visit Maldives