Maldives News Bulletin - Volume 188

The President has called on the nation to commit to raising children who are steadfast in their Islamic faith and deeply devoted to their country

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu urged the nation to unite and raise a generation that is unwavering in its Islamic values, commitment to nationhood, and accountability to the sense of responsibility as Maldivians.

He made these remarks in his address at the official ceremony marking the 40th anniversary of Maafannu Madharusaa, held on Saturday evening.

During the ceremony, the President expressed confidence in the nation’s future, noting that the students who presented various proposals at the event were a testament to this promising outlook. He explained that this hopeful future serves as the driving force behind efforts to shape the students’ prospects.

The President assured the audience that his Administration would support the school in meeting its future needs and development goals. As the school is under the jurisdiction of the Malé City Council, he stated that the Administration would collaborate with the Council to provide the necessary assistance.

At the ceremony, two students from the school requested a hall on the ground floor to ensure easier access for older people. President Dr Muizzu promised that the hall would be completed by 2025.

Additionally, the President pledged that, in the coming year, special emphasis would be placed on educating and training teachers in special needs education to ensure that students with special needs receive equal educational opportunities.

During Saturday’s ceremony, the President also presented service plaques to long-serving staff members of the school.

Maafannu Madharusaa was founded on 15 February 1984. It initially enrolled students from nursery to grade six. It later expanded to include up to grade 10. However, the school is now exclusively dedicated to nursery and preschool-aged children.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

The President sends a message on SAARC Charter Day

President His Excellency Dr Mohamed Muizzu has sent a message on the 40th South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Charter Day.

In his message, the President greeted the Secretary-General, the Secretariat, affiliated institutions of the SAARC, and the people of South Asia.

He stated that SAARC has championed the cause of improving the lives of South Asians since its inception. He took note of the principles and values enshrined in the SAARC Charter, which aim to foster peace and prosperity in the region. The President called for reinvigorating the commitment to addressing critical issues such as climate change, public health, and economic inequality. He emphasised prioritising sustainable development, innovation, resilient infrastructure, and connectivity.

Concluding his message, the President reaffirmed the Maldives’ commitment to building a dynamic and more inclusive SAARC, dedicated to fulfilling shared aspirations and promoting a brighter, prosperous future for South Asian people.

The SAARC Charter Day is celebrated every year on December 8.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

President departs on a tour of Alif Alif, Male’ atoll

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu departed on Sunday morning for a tour of the islands of Alif Alif and Male Atoll.

The President is to visit some islands in the atoll and, time permitting, meet the Island Councils and Women’s Development Committees of the islands and at the Atoll Councils of the two atolls.

This is part of a series of tours of the atolls and islands, during which the President will seek to understand developmental needs and prioritise projects.

President Dr Muizzu has set a goal to visit all the islands at least twice during his tenure.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

Presidential visit essential for island’s development, says Thoddoo Island Council

The Thoddoo Island Council has emphasised that a Presidential visit, during which the President assesses developmental needs and engages with the island community, is crucial for ensuring the island’s best interests. They made the remarks during their meeting with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu this morning as part of his tour of the islands of AA and Malé Atoll.

During the meeting, council members highlighted the challenges in delivering health services on the island and requested establishing a better health centre. They also discussed the space constraints at the island school and advocated for financial arrangements to boost the island’s economy.

The President assured the council that his Presidential pledges would progress with these projects being earmarked in the budget. He also announced a road development project for the island.

Cabinet Ministers accompanying the President provided updates on individual projects planned for the island’s progress. During the meeting, the President signed the visitors’ book at the council.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

WHO to Assist Maldives in Formulating Tobacco Control Master Plan

Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim speaks on a panel discussion titled ‘Dhafaraa’ | Image courtesy: PSM News

Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim has revealed that a comprehensive five-year master plan on tobacco control is being formulated with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) technical assistance. The initiative, aimed at creating a tobacco-free society, was launched under the directive of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

Minister Ibrahim disclosed information about formulating the master plan during a Dhafara panel discussion. He confirmed that a team of WHO technical experts arrived in the Maldives to assist the relevant authorities in developing the plan. “Work on formulating the plans has already commenced,” he announced.

Despite the involvement of WHO technical experts, Minister Ibrahim underscored the importance of public input, stating that since tobacco control is a public issue, the ministry will seek the general public’s contributions. As part of the administration’s efforts to ensure the sustainable enforcement of tobacco control, Minister Ibrahim highlighted the necessity of overcoming challenges through the master plan.

“We will encounter challenges when we attempt such an endeavour. However, the plan will make it easier to overcome those challenges. Tobacco control is not something a single agency can enforce. The new plan will pave the way for the participation of all relevant institutions. We aim to ensure that this plan includes the input and opinion of the public,” he said.

The minister also underscored the socio-economic benefits of reducing tobacco use, noting that healthcare savings could be redirected towards education and other vital sectors. He said the Government-driven master plan would receive support and assistance from all state institutions, making enforcement more effective.

“With everyone’s support and assistance, the enforcement of the measures outlined in the master plan will be strengthened,” he added.

SOURCE : PSM

President reassures that the commitment for the next two years is to fulfil the campaign pledges actively

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has reassured the commitment to actively fulfil the campaign pledges made in the islands during the presidential elections in 2025 and 2026. He made the remarks while speaking with the resident of AA Thoddoo Island this morning.

The President clarified that the reasons for not meeting public expectations in 2024 are well known. He explained that the Administration had to adhere to a budget established by the previous Finance Minister and approved by the former Government’s majority in parliament. Consequently, progress was limited, as the Administration needed to consider the recommendations for the transitional phase.

The President stated the main challenge for the Government this year was the budget passed by the previous Parliament, which sought to undermine the current Administration. He noted that this issue has now been resolved.

The President added that the next phase of implementation would commence with the budget approved by the current Government’s parliamentary majority, which is intended to fulfil the promises made to the public. He assured that over the next two years, all presidential commitments would be coordinated and systematic across the country, with numerous projects also nearing completion.

The President emphasised the Government’s commitment to infrastructure development and social stability. He stated that his Administration has ended the practice of releasing prisoners shortly before elections without proper rehabilitation, a tactic that has previously been used for political gain.

The President highlighted that many prisoners were released before elections in previous administrations. However, he noted that in the past year, only 86 individuals were released per legal provisions. As such, the President said that the Government would focus on rehabilitating inmates through the recently revised programmes. He emphasised that his Government would prioritise development and stability and avoid engaging in political vendettas.

The President departed this morning on a two-day visit to the islands of North Ari Atoll and Kaafu Atoll.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

Maldives Pushing to Open New Passenger Terminal Ahead of Schedule

Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen was pictured speaking during a press conference. | FILE PHOTO: PSM NEWS

The Government is trying to complete the new passenger terminal at the country’s main airport, Velana International Airport (VIA), ahead of schedule, Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen has said.

In his message on the occasion of International Civil Aviation Day, Minister Ameen noted that as the world crossed into the 21st century, civil aviation has become more than a mode of transport for people, adding that it has evolved into the engine that fuels economic and social growth.

The Minister proudly noted that Maldives is among the developing countries that have fully kept pace with modern aviation changes. Ameen said that, in line with the President’s vision, local airlines have launched efforts to expand operations with new fleet additions.

The minister said the national flag carrier, Maldivian, will bring its first wide-body aircraft and commence flights to more international destinations.

In addition, Ameen said that despite the decent progress made on the new international terminal at VIA, the Government is now pushing to complete the project ahead of schedule.

He added that this project, once completed, will increase the frequency of flights of both domestic and foreign airlines and provide better services to passengers. The minister also said that the country is preparing to resume helicopter operations in the island nation in a bid to diversify its civil aviation industry.

“The service, including medical evacuations, will provide air transportation of tourists between resorts and airports. The Aviation Minister added that it will also facilitate night flights to regions with no domestic airports.

VIA operator Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) previously said that the new terminal project would be completed and opened for passengers by the middle of next year.

In his message, Minister Ameen said the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) is scheduled to visit Maldives mid-next year to conduct an audit to assess the country’s compliance with international aviation standards. He expressed confidence that the efforts of the Maldives Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) under the Government’s guidance will pass the audit with flying colours.

SOURCE : PSM

President pledges to prioritise farming and local tourism to empower citizens of Thoddoo

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has pledged to prioritise investments in farming and local tourism for the betterment of the citizens of AA Thoddoo island. He made the remarks while speaking with the island’s residents Sunday morning.

In his address, the President noted that the island’s citizens were productive members engaging in a wide range of economic activity. As such, he said, the residents have perfected the farming and local tourism industries, with most of the residents having carried out the work for years. Noting this, the President pledged to broaden opportunities for the sectors to make the citizens more affluent.

The President also noted that the Council had formed a Local Authority company and shared his experiences of attempting to operate such a company during his tenure as Male’ City Mayor. President Dr Muizzu said that this administration would not bar the work of such companies, affirming his constant support of all initiatives that bettered the lives of ordinary Maldivians. He said the administration would seek financial and other assistance to such companies.

The President further stressed that his Administration would not operate on political bias and would serve the Maldivians fairly and justly. He reaffirmed the Administration’s full support for Councils and Women’s Development Committees.

Reflecting on the island’s issues, President Dr Muizzu assured us that the island’s road development project will commence next year. He noted that in the 2025 budget, priority was given to water and sewerage projects and road development. Additionally, in the coming year, operations of the health centre are to be expanded, with the island school shifting from two sessions to one, as well as the introduction of A-level education. Moreover, he said that green tax revenues are to be harnessed to consolidate waste management services nationwide.

The President further pledged to install a US dollar ATM on the island, furthering banking services there. He noted the work already carried out to broaden banking services nationwide.

Following the meeting with the island’s citizens, the President visited the Thoddoo Health Centre. During his tour of the Centre, he conversed with the staff and inquired about the pressing issues and needs of the Centre and staff.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

Development Zones will be Developed to Serve a Population of 100,000 People, Minister says

Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Development, Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed, was pictured during a press conference. | FILE PHOTO: PSM NEWS

Minister of Housing, Land and Urban Development Dr Ali Haidar Ahmed has said the Government will develop the development zones in the north and south of the country to serve a population of 100,000 people.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has designated seven islands for development as urban centres. Additionally, President Muizzu has decided to develop two special development zones: one encompassing the four northernmost atolls of the Maldives and another for the four southernmost atolls.

Speaking to PSM News about the landmark development plan, Minister Dr Haidar stressed the need to develop additional areas similar to the densely populated capital of Malé, especially in the north and south of the island nation.

The Minister highlighted that these areas include populous islands located far from Malé. Around 200,000 people live in the southern islands, while the recorded population in the north is around 55,000.

“Providing high-quality services will be extremely difficult unless the population is brought to 100,000. A large population is needed to come and seek tertiary-level services. High-quality services will be available once these areas are developed,” Dr Haidar said.

The Minister added that the Government’s plan also includes developing separate urban centres within the metropolitan regions, which will consist of a wide range of service facilities, according to him.

He added that these zones are being planned to create job opportunities, wider tourism opportunities, and the chance to expand private businesses.

Chapter 4 of the Dhiveheenge Raajje, President Dr Muizzu’s election manifesto, is dedicated to the Government’s policies on housing and urbanisation. In addition to the Malé Urban Region, the Government has announced plans to establish a Northern Development Zone as a high-quality service area, including Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, and Shaviyani atolls. Meanwhile, Haa Dhaalu Kulhudhuffushi City has been designated as the central administrative hub of this zone, with Hanimaadhoo in the same atoll established as an international gateway and the establishment of an international transhipment port in Ihavandhippolhu, Haa Alifu Atoll.

The manifesto also includes the establishment of a Southern Development Zone with world-class service facilities, encompassing Gaafu Alifu, Gaafu Dhaalu, Fuvahmulah City and Addu City. Addu City has been designated as the central administrative hub and international gateway for the Southern Zone. The plan to expand and develop an international transhipment port, industrial activities, fisheries, agriculture, mariculture, and tourism facilities are also detailed in the manifesto.

SOURCE : PSM

Rasdhoo Island Council commends the Government’s housing initiatives on the island

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu met with the AA. Rasdhoo Island Council and Women’s Development Committee (WDC) this afternoon. The council commended the Government’s housing initiatives on the island. The meeting was held at the Secretariat of Rasdhoo Island Council.

Council members relayed the most pertinent issues for the island’s development. They highlighted the need for coastal protection, the construction of an additional 50 housing units, and arrangements to provide ice to fishermen.

Speaking at the meeting, President Dr Muizzu assured the council that the Administration would seek to address their concerns while implementing his pledges. He shared details of the Administration’s efforts to address the issues raised by the council and stated that the Government would fully support the council’s proposals for economically beneficial activities.

During the meeting, the President and Cabinet Ministers shared the latest updates on the developmental projects planned for Rasdhoo Island.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

MWSC Opens USD 13 Million Bond for Investors

State utility company Male’ Water and Sewerage Company Private Limited (MWSC) has listed a USD 26 million bond on the Maldives Stock Exchange and invited interested parties to invest in USD 13 million worth of bonds.

MWSC has listed the amortised bond on the Maldives Stock Exchange to raise funds for development projects and the company’s business portfolio expansion. The bond subscription has been listed in two tranches, with half of the total bond amount now open for investors through MWSC’s online portal, Viyani. Subscribers will receive 7.5 per cent interest for the five-year duration of the amortised bond.

The company’s revenue portfolio accounts for 55 per cent of water and sewerage services, while the rest is generated as non-utility revenue. However, MWSC aims to boost its non-utility revenue by expanding its business portfolio to 60% of total revenue to ensure financial sustainability.

MWSC has secured new projects worth USD 84 million spanning more than 20 islands this year, according to Managing Director Abdul Matheen Mohamed. However, Matheen said the company requires additional resources and equipment to carry out these projects, adding that financing is usually available at very high interest rates.

He said MWSC implemented significant cost-cutting measures to save USD 11 million between the three quarters of last year and this year as part of its efforts to improve its financial capacity. According to Matheen, such efforts will boost the company’s net profit by 100 per cent this year without any added financial burden for the people

SOURCE : PSM

Central Bank Dismisses Two Private Sector Board Members

The Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) building located on the northern waterfront of the capital Malé City | Image courtesy: MMA

The Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) has announced the dismissal of two private sector representatives from its Board of Directors. The members removed from their positions are Asad Ali and Mohamed Shahdy Anwar.

Mr Ali, who also serves as the Deputy Secretary General of the Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI), and Mr Anwar, Chairman of the Maldives International Arbitration Centre, were the private sector members on the Board of the primary regulator of the nation’s financial sector. The central bank has yet to give reasons for their dismissal.

According to the Maldives Monetary Authority Act, the President appoints the central bank’s Governor and Deputy Governor. The President appoints the other five Board members, each serving a five-year term, upon the Governor’s recommendation.

The MMA’s Board of Directors comprises seven members: the Governor, the Deputy Governor, a representative from the MMA’s economic or financial sector, an official from the Ministry of Finance, a Government economic sector official, and two directors from the private sector.

SOURCE : PSM

President meets North Ari Atoll Council, deliberates developmental needs of the Atoll

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu met with the North Ari Atoll Council on Sunday afternoon at the Council Secretariat to deliberate on the atoll’s developmental needs.

At the meeting, Atoll Council members requested establishing Passport and National Identity Card services in Atoll. They further asked for the inclusion of lagoons under the Council’s jurisdiction to gain economic benefits and Government support for financial activities. The participants also deliberated on ways to strengthen the decentralised system of governance.

Addressing the meeting, President Dr Muizzu assured that the Atoll would not be neglected, noting that the airport project for the Atoll is pivotal. He added that all atolls will receive Passport and National Identity Card services in the coming year. The President further reiterated his pledge to allocate a percentage of tourism tax revenues to Councils, noting that this would increase revenues.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

New Water Supply Network Brings Relief to Kumburudhoo Residents

A staff member of Malé Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC) inspects a panel board of the newly constructed water supply network in Kumburudhoo, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll | Image courtesy: MWSC

The water supply network project in Kumburudhoo, Alifu Dhaalu Atoll, has been successfully completed. The project, initiated in December 2021, was carried out by the state-owned Malé Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC), addressing a critical need for safe drinking water in the island community.

For years, the lack of a proper network for safe drinking water has been a significant concern for the residents of Kumburudhoo, forcing them to endure considerable hardships. Completing this project promises to alleviate these issues and significantly improve the quality of life on the island.

Abdul Matheen Mohamed, Managing Director of MWSC, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the project. “The water supply network project was completed with the support and participation of numerous agencies,” he stated in a social media post. “The project has been completed with the hard work of many to ensure the supply of safe drinking water to the residents of Kumburudhoo.”

The Government-sponsored project, which cost approximately US$2.9 million, included developing a 2.75-kilometre leading pipe network, building a building to house a Reverse Osmosis (RO) facility, and installing an RO plant. Water storage facilities were also developed, and water meters were installed to connect households to the new network.

The project was completed as part of Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration’s efforts to ensure developmental projects across all islands, regardless of their size or population.

SOURCE : PSM

WDC will not be dissolved; efforts will be made to empower the committees: The President

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has assured that the Women’s Development Committee (WDC) will not be dissolved and has pledged that the Government will make substantial efforts to strengthen the committees. The President made these remarks whilst responding to a question from a WDC member during a meeting at the North Ari Atoll Council Office this afternoon.

The meeting with the Ukulhas Island Council and WDC focused on discussing the most pressing needs of residents.

During the meeting, the Council highlighted several concerns, including a critical housing shortage. They also noted significant space constraints at the Council Office and the school. Additionally, the Council emphasised the urgent need for coastal protection in erosion-prone areas.

During this meeting, the President shared with the Council the Government’s work in collaboration with relevant institutions to facilitate the concerns raised by the Council.

Ministers accompanying the President provided comprehensive updates regarding ongoing development projects in Ukulhas.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

President meets guesthouse operators in Rasdhoo, North Ari Atoll

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has met the guesthouse operators of Rasdhoo island in North Ari Atoll.

During the meeting held in the island’s state house, the guesthouse operators expressed their concerns over erosion at the sandbank adjacent to the island. They appealed to the Government to conduct an EIA on the area and implement measures to prevent further degradation and protect the area. They further noted the measures that need to be taken to expand guesthouse operations on the island and the necessity of a US dollar ATM.

Speaking to the guesthouse operators, the President assured them that the Administration and relevant agencies would seek resolutions to the issues they had highlighted. He particularly noted that special measures would be enacted to address sandbank erosion.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

First Lady graces ‘Fiyavathi’ Annual Ceremony

First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed graced the annual ceremony of Fiyavathi, the children’s centre in Hulhumalé.

During the ceremony held this evening at Farukolhufushi, the First Lady enjoyed various performances by the children of Fiyavathi and distributed gifts to them.

The First Lady also spent quality time with the children, joining them for evening refreshments and engaging in conversation.

In addition, the ‘Game Room’ donated to Fiyavathi by the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) was officially handed over to the centre as part of today’s ceremony.

Fiyavathi, which operates in Hulhumalé as part of the ‘Kudakudhinge Hiyaa,’ is a state-run facility providing care for children under 13.

SOURCE : The President’s Office