Maldives News Bulletin - Volume 182

Maldives aims for record wins at World Travel Awards 2025

Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal has expressed hope that the Maldives will secure at least 15 awards at the World Travel Awards (WTA) next year. He shared this ambition during a Velana International Airport (VIA) ceremony to celebrate the Maldives’ victories at this year’s prestigious event.

The Maldives secured accolades in nine categories at this year’s WTA, including the highly coveted World’s Leading Destination Award for the fifth consecutive year and the World’s Leading Green Destination Award for the first time.

Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Faisal commended the tourism industry’s collective effort and attributed the awards to the dedication and hard work of all stakeholders.

“Our goal is to win 15 or even 20 awards next year,” the Minister stated, reflecting the optimism and drive within the sector.

The Minister also underscored the pivotal role of the national airline, Maldivian, in the tourism sector. He envisioned the airline promoting Maldives on its aircraft by showcasing “Visit Maldives” branding and flying to the country’s top tourist destinations.

Managing Director of Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) Ibrahim Shiuree highlighted the organisation’s plans to expand its marketing efforts next year. Shiuree announced initiatives to explore diverse markets, including sports tourism, health tourism, film tourism, and education tourism, to attract a broader range of visitors.

The event also marked the reinstalling of the World’s Leading Destination Monument at VIA, commemorating the Maldives’ 2024 achievements.

SOURCE : PSM

Foreign Minister Dr Khaleel sends Independence Day greetings to his Barbadian counterpart

The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Maldives, Dr. Abdulla Khaleel, sends a message of felicitations to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade of Barbados, Kerrie Symmonds, M.P., on the Independence Day of Barbados.

He stated that it was with great respect that he extended warm greetings and best wishes to the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the people of Barbados on the momentous occasion. He expressed hope that the relationship of friendship and cooperation between the Maldives and Barbados would continue to grow stronger in the future.

He wished her good health and well-being and further prosperity in Barbados. He requested her Excellency to accept his assurances of his highest consideration.

SOURCE : Ministry of Foreign Affairs

50 projects awarded to MTCC by former gov’t stalled

Minister of Construction and Infrastructure Dr Abdulla Muththalib has said that 50 projects awarded to the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC) by the previous administration began after the end of the term.

Speaking to PSM News, Minister Muththalib said that the budget allocated to the Ministry in 2024 was USD 233 million, although the projects cost more than USD 2.5 billion. He said the previous administration had awarded more than 300 projects and allocated minimal financing. He noted that many of those projects were awarded to state-owned MTCC, Road Development Corporation Limited (RDC), and Malé Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC). Still, those companies could not conduct such projects. He also noted that 50 ongoing projects handed over to the new administration are now complete amid the difficulties.

Furthermore, Minister Muththalib said USD 58 million was allocated for development projects this year, which was spent on ongoing projects. He noted that the new Administration could start only two projects, which were completely new in the past year.

SOURCE : PSM

Tourism Minister confident of reaching 2- million-target by December 25

Minister of Tourism Ibrahim Faisal has expressed confidence that the Government will meet its target of attracting two million tourists to the Maldives by December 25, setting a novice record for the country’s tourism sector.

Speaking at a ceremony celebrating the Maldives’ fifth consecutive World Leading Destination award, Minister Faisal assured reporters that the nation is on track to reach this milestone. He highlighted that, based on current tourist arrivals and statistics from the Ministry, the Maldives is expected to surpass two million visitors by December 25 at the latest. He further noted his belief that the daily arrivals average will increase significantly in the coming days.

As of December 24, the Maldives had welcomed 1,803,823 tourists, compared to 1,651,706 during the same period last year, reflecting a 9.2% increase. December is traditionally a peak for tourism, with 194,690 visitors recorded in December of the previous year alone.

The Ministry of Finance forecasts that 2.2 million tourists will visit the Maldives next year. The Ministry of Tourism, however, is optimistic that this number will reach 2.3 million, driven by enhanced promotional efforts in both existing and emerging markets.

SOURCE : PSM

Strict actions to be taken against officers breaking the law

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan has warned that the strictest actions will be taken against those who break the law while working for a law enforcement agency. His comments on social media came amid an investigation carried out against officers suspected of having done unlawful activities while dealing with immigrants.

Minister Ihusaan said President Dr Mohamed Muizzu had instructed the Government to take strict action against those who tarnish the dignity of uniform bodies and sever public trust in government agencies. He said an investigation is underway against officers suspected of having been involved in activities that will hinder the government’s efforts to solve the issue of illegal immigrants.

According to the Minister, the Maldives Police Service (MPS) has seized electronic devices belonging to suspects. Further updates will be issued as the investigation progresses. He stressed the Government’s policy of not tolerating such illegal activities to any extent and urged officers to refrain from actions that may sever public trust.

SOURCE : PSM

Gov’t to enhance zakat system using insights from the conference

Minister of Islamic Affairs Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has stated that the Government intends to use the scholarly insights gained from the Zakat Conference to enhance the country’s Zakat system.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the International Zakat Conference, he emphasised the event’s significance, noting that, while it may not be immediately evident to all, it holds great importance for the nation’s future. The Minister expressed his expectation for improved outcomes by applying the knowledge gathered during the conference.

The one-day conference covered a range of critical topics related to Zakat, including the unalterable components of Sharia law and modern issues that may arise in the administration of Zakat. Discussions also focused on broadening the concept of Zakat payees, integrating modern innovations, and conducting further research on the topic. Participants submitted 24 research papers to the Zakat House during the conference.

The International Zakat Conference 2024 aimed to promote a sustainable Zakat system in the Maldives. It brought together scholars, practitioners, and policymakers to explore strategies for strengthening the Zakat administration. The event positions Zakat as a crucial social welfare and economic stability instrument. Participants included representatives from various Maldivian institutions and scholars from Malaysia.

SOURCE : PSM

Maldives will be indifferent in enforcing arrest warrants issued by international courts

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan has said that the Maldives will be indifferent to individuals in enforcing arrest warrants issued by international courts.

Earlier, an international media organisation claimed to have asked the Minister if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would be arrested if he visited the Maldives. The organisation reported that the Minister skipped the question and kept silent. Debunking the story, the Minister said that the Maldives will implement arrest warrants issued by international courts and will not differentiate between individuals.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Netanyahu and former Defence Minister Yoav Gallant. The Maldives was among the first to welcome the decision. President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has highlighted the importance of implementing the warrant, noting that it is vital to bringing peace and upholding the rights of the Palestinian people.

SOURCE : PSM

Five islands selected for vertical farming

Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare Aishath Rameela has disclosed that the Government has identified and selected five islands for vertical farming. She made the remarks during a programme on PSM News.

Speaking to PSM, the Minister said that the local councils of the selected islands have now been informed about the decision. Islands selected for vertical farming are Kendhikulhudhoo of Noonu Atoll, Hulhudhuffaaru of Raa Atoll, Naifaru of Lhaviyani Atoll, Mathiveri of Alifu Alifu Atoll, and Kinbidhoo of Thaa Atoll.

The Minister noted that procurement of vertical farming structures is underway, with goods expected to arrive in early 2025. Upon receipt of these structures, the Government will initiate training programs for local islanders in vertical farming techniques and provide them with additional technical support.

She further noted that hydroponics and greenhouse farming are becoming increasingly popular. as modern farming methods gain momentum in the country. These innovative techniques are desirable to farmers as they help reduce the prevalence of plant diseases. The Government aims to advance agricultural practices further and reduce reliance on imports.

SOURCE : PSM

Minister Ihusaan notes the importance of fostering integrity among youths to combat corruption

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan has highlighted the importance of fostering integrity among the youth as a critical step towards building a corruption-free society. His remarks were made during the second ministerial meeting on anti-corruption enforcement agencies within the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

Minister Ihusaan outlined the Government’s commitment to eradicating corruption in the Maldives and noted its profound impact on national development and social well-being. He stressed that tackling corruption requires a collective effort, and the OIC meeting serves as a platform for countries to collaborate and develop strategies to eliminate it.

Minister Ihusaan stated that instilling values of honesty and integrity in young people is essential for reducing corrupt practices, highlighting the pivotal role of youth in combating corruption. He also emphasised that innovations and technology play a vital role in the fight against corruption. As such, he added that the scope for corrupt practices could be significantly diminished by designing digital platforms that promote transparency and integrity for use in government offices and agencies.

Additionally, Minister Ihusaan invited OIC member states to participate in an international forum on “Enhancing Integrity in Tourism,” which will be held in the Maldives from May 6-7, 2025. The forum, organised in collaboration with the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) and the Government of Saudi Arabia, will focus on advancing integrity within the tourism sector.

SOURCE : PSM

Gov’t to complete Male’-Vilimale’ road project before the end of term

The government has said that the ongoing project to develop roads in Male’ and Vilimale’ will be completed before the current administration’s term ends.

Speaking to PSM News, Minister of State for Construction and Infrastructure Ibrahim Nazeem said the project is ongoing at a steady pace and expressed confidence that the roads will be developed before the end of the term. In its first year, the government secured the finances from China to conduct the project.

Chinese experts have also visited the sites and completed a survey. Nazeem said that the feasibility study for the project is also complete, and related documents will be submitted to the ministry soon. He said that the issue of flooding the capital will be solved upon completion of the project.

A USD 100 million grant from China funds the project, and practical work will commence next year.

SOURCE : PSM

Proposals to acquire uninhabited islands evaluated

The Government has completed the evaluation of proposals submitted by three local councils to acquire uninhabited islands.

Minister of Cities, Local Government and Public Works Adam Shareef said two island councils and one atoll council had submitted proposals to acquire uninhabited islands so far, per President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s decision to let councils acquire islands for economic activities. Minister Shareef announced that the ministry had evaluated proposals submitted by local councils per the president’s policy. He said evaluation reports of those three councils will be forwarded to the President’s office in the coming week. The President will make the final decisions on such proposals.

Earlier this year, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu pledged to make it easier for councils to obtain permits to operate income-generating businesses. He stated that the Administration aims to make all the islands and the island communities self-reliant. As such, he announced that uninhabited islands would be leased to the councils for economic activities. The islands will be leased for a period of 10 to 25 years.

SOURCE : PSM

Gov’t announces modernisation and rebranding of Maldives Polytechnic

The Minister of Higher Education, Labour, and Skills Development, Dr Maryam Mariya, stated that the Maldives Polytechnic will undergo modernisation and rebranding. She made the remarks on a PSM News programme that aired to mark the government’s first anniversary.

The Minister emphasised that the polytechnic needs more facilities to provide a conducive learning environment for today’s youth and that modernisation efforts would begin soon. She stated that the institution must be further developed to offer students a more engaging and technologically advanced space. She noted that the current teaching methods are outdated, and modern tools and online learning opportunities need to be incorporated to enhance the educational experience.

The Maldives Polytechnic, established by the Government to provide vocational training and skilled workforce development, offers education in various fields, ranging from certificate to diploma. The polytechnic’s campuses are also being expanded to different regions of the country to better serve the needs of young people seeking job-ready skills.

SOURCE : PSM

STO informs shareholders about the decision to halt the merger of Fenaka

State Trading Organisation (STO) has announced that it has discontinued merging with Fenaka Corporation Limited.

According to the state-owned company, the Ministry of Finance has instructed Fenaka to halt becoming an STO subsidiary. Hence, the board of directors has decided to monitor the company’s progress by proposing the merger.

STO has now informed the company’s shareholders about the decision.

SOURCE : PSM

Seaplane services to launch soon at Hanimaadhoo International Airport

Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) has announced plans to introduce seaplane services at Hanimaadhoo International Airport to enhance its revenue potential and diversify its service offerings.

Speaking to the Parliament’s State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) Committee, MACL Deputy Managing Director Mujthaba Latheef revealed ongoing initiatives to integrate the Regional Airports Company into MACL. A share exchange agreement between the Privatisation and Corporatisation Board (PCB), Regional Airports, and MACL is expected to be signed this week.

Highlighting the importance of seaplane services, Mujthaba stated that this move is a critical step in ensuring the profitability of Hanimaadhoo International Airport. “We will establish a seaplane service very soon. The airport’s feasibility as an international hub significantly improves with such services,” he said, adding that plans for a dedicated seaplane terminal are also in progress.

Hanimaadhoo International Airport, currently undergoing extensive development, is a USD 136.6 million project designed to boost economic growth in the Northern Maldives, particularly in the Greater Thiladhunmathi region. The new 2,465-meter runway, capable of accommodating aircraft with 250–300 passengers, was inaugurated in October 2024. Earlier this year, a 1,200-meter section of the runway became operational, replacing the old runway, which supported only 150-seater aircraft.

Once completed, the airport is expected to handle 1.3 million passengers annually, significantly contributing to the growth of northern tourism. Construction is anticipated to conclude by February 2025.

As one of the most significant regional investments in the Maldives, the project is set to transform Hanimaadhoo into a vital hub for international and domestic aviation, bolstering connectivity and economic opportunities in the region.

SOURCE : PSM

FDC settles outstanding USD 11.5 million payment of 4,000 housing units’ project

Hamdhan Shakeel, Managing Director of Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation (FDC), has disclosed that the outstanding USD 11.5 million for the construction of 4,000 housing units in Hulhumale’ Phase II has been fully paid. This update was shared during his appearance on a special program on PSM News, where he discussed the project’s progress.

Kalpataru Projects International Limited (KPIL) and the National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) are developing the housing units in Hulhumale’ Phase II. The project is being financed with support from the Government of India and the Maldivian governments. The government of India contributes 15% of the total project cost, while the Maldivian government funds the remainder. The total value of the project is estimated at USD 267 million.

During the interview, Hamdhan Shakeel noted that the project had faced delays due to the previous government’s failure to make timely payments. However, he confirmed that the outstanding USD 11.5 million has now been paid within the first six months of the current Government’s tenure, which has led to a significant acceleration in the pace of work. Shakeel further explained that by the end of the previous administration’s term, approximately 31% of the work had been completed. In contrast, the first eight months under the new Government saw an additional 32% of the work completed, marking substantial progress.

The contract for constructing 32 towers, which will house 4,000 units, was awarded to the two Indian companies—KPIL and NBCC—in 2021. The 16 towers being developed by KPIL are named “Aman Udhares,” while the 16 towers developed by NBCC are named “Aman Dhoadhi.” FDC aims to complete the entire project, including all 4,000 flats, by July 2025.

SOURCE : PSM

MMA announces foreign currency exchange spaces at new VIA terminal

Governor of the Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA), Ahmed Munawar, has announced that the new terminal at Velana International Airport will include designated spaces for foreign currency exchange, facilitating easier currency transactions. He made the remarks during a PSM News programme.

Speaking on the programme, he explained that all banks operating in the country can establish exchange counters at the airport following discussions with the banking sector. This move is intended to align with global practices, making it more convenient for businesses and tourists to exchange foreign currency.

The MMA is also working on a new foreign exchange law, with a draft bill prepared and opened for public comment. Before the law’s enactment, a new rule will take effect in January, requiring resorts and guesthouses to charge a specified amount in foreign currency per tourist.

Governor Munawar emphasised that expanding foreign exchange facilities at the airport is part of a broader initiative to provide businesses with greater access to foreign currency exchange services. The goal is to establish a transparent system that holds banks accountable while ensuring these services are available to those needing them most.

Foreign currency counters are available for departing passengers, and a Bank of Maldives (BML) counter is available at the arrival exit. However, the new terminal will allow more banks to provide these services.

SOURCE : PSM