Maldives News Bulletin - Volume 206

Discover latest updates of the Government

Author

The President's Office
January 05, 2025

Date: January 5, 2025 | Issue 206

2025 to be a year of development project launches and economic recovery: The President

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that 2025 will be a year when various development projects will commence across different parts of the country, economic prosperity will be restored, and general prosperity will begin to reach the entire nation. He made these remarks in his address to the Maldivian people, extending his good wishes and congratulations for the new year.

In his address, the President stated that Maldives is now aiming towards specific set goals. He noted that this development journey follows a clear roadmap drawn for migrating to the ranks of developed nations.

Noting that a new year presents an opportunity to set resolutions, the President said that these can be made at national, community and individual levels. He emphasised that the Government’s resolution is to remain steadfast in serving the people day and night with sincerity, fulfilling promises, maintaining trust, and staying consistently close to the people to find permanent solutions to problems.

In his address, the President also encouraged the promotion of positive thinking and prioritising peace and reconciliation as individual resolutions for the new year. Emphasising that the foundation of development and contentment lies in peace, respect and affection, he appealed to every citizen to prioritise positive thinking to make the new year a year of development.

President Dr Muizzu concluded his new year’s address by encouraging all to work together towards national development with a unified goal. He affirmed that 2025 will be a year of responsible nation-building for the future of the Maldivian people.

The President also extended New Year greetings and well wishes to all Maldivian citizens through his official X account.

 SOURCE : The President’s Office

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Abdulla Khaleel and Minister of External Affairs, Dr S. Jaishankar hold official discussions

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives, Dr Abdulla Khaleel, held bilateral talks with Minister of External Affairs of India, Dr S. Jaishankar, today. Both sides engaged in discussions on all aspects of the partnership including priority areas outlined by the Leaders during the State Visit of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to India in October 2024.

Both Ministers expressed commitment to continue working closely together, bilaterally and in international fora, on priority areas of mutual interest.

During the official discussions held in New Delhi, both Ministers acknowledged the economic partnership and the progress of ongoing projects facilitated through Indian grant assistance and line of credit initiatives.

Minister Dr Khaleel conveyed appreciation from the Government of Maldives for India’s support and assistance to ease the ongoing fiscal challenges. Minister also acknowledged the close cooperation in advancing economic, trade, and investment ties between the two nations, as well as for India’s committed role in the socioeconomic development of the Maldives.

Both Ministers underscored the significance of exploring additional avenues to enhance the Maldives-India partnership.

After the meeting, Ministers signed the High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP) MoU, launching the Third Phase of project-based cooperation aimed at directly benefiting people at the grassroots level.

President applauds efforts to advocate for the rights of people with visual impairments in message on World Braille Day

On Saturday, in observance of World Braille Day, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu issued a message reflecting on the transformative impact of Braille and its vital role in empowering people with visual impairments. The President emphasised that Braille breaks down barriers that limit their participation in society, serving as a crucial tool to enable them to become active and independent contributors to all aspects of societal development.

In his message, the President commended the remarkable efforts of individuals in Maldivian society who tirelessly raise awareness and advocate for the rights of visually impaired citizens.

The President reaffirmed the fundamental responsibility of every nation to ensure that appropriate services and resources are designed and made accessible for people with visual impairments. He stated that the Government of Maldives will continue to implement policies that address the needs of this community.

The President concluded his message by reaffirming the Government’s commitment to empowering people with disabilities, fostering their inclusion in society, and supporting them in living with dignity.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

Foreign Minister Dr Khaleel departs after concluding his Official Visit to India

Minister of Foreign Affairs of Maldives, Dr Abdulla Khaleel departed India after concluding his first Official Visit to New Delhi.

During the visit, Minister of Foreign Affairs met with the Minister of External Affairs of India, Dr S. Jaishankar. Both Ministers reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations, discussed new areas for future collaboration in strengthening the close bonds of friendship between the two countries. Minister expressed his appreciation to the Government of India for the support and assistance granted to ease the current fiscal challenges faced by the Government of Maldives.

During this visit, Ministers signed the High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP) MoU, launching the Third Phase of project-based cooperation aimed at directly benefiting people at the grassroots level.

Minister Dr Khaleel also visited the High Commission of Maldives in India.

SOURCE : Ministry of Foreign Affairs

President Dr Muizzu conveys Felicitations to the President and Prime Minister of Cuba on the Anniversary of the Revolution

His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, on Wednesday, extended felicitations to His Excellency Miguel Díaz-Canel Bermúdez, the President of the Republic of Cuba, and His Excellency Manuel Marrero Cruz, Prime Minister of the Republic of Cuba, on the occasion of Cuba’s Anniversary of the Revolution.

In his messages, the President conveyed greetings and wishes from the Government and the people of the Maldives to the leadership and people of Cuba. He further expressed his best wishes for the good health and wellbeing of the President and Prime Minister, as well as for the further progress and prosperity of the people of Cuba.

The Anniversary of the Revolution of Cuba is celebrated annually on the 1st of January. The Maldives and Cuba established diplomatic relations on 29th January 1977.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

Robust India-Maldives Initiatives a Testament to Strong Ties, Says Minister Khaleel

The Maldives is currently undertaking numerous developmental projects with the assistance of the Indian government, a testament to the strong bilateral relations between the two countries, Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel stated.

The foreign minister made this statement in an interview with international news outlet WION during his recent official visit to New Delhi, India. During the visit, Minister Dr Khaleel met with India’s Minister of External Affairs, Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, where they reviewed the entire spectrum of bilateral relations and discussed new areas for future collaboration.

Minister Dr Khaleel characterised India-Maldives relations as historic in his interview with WION and underscored that the enduring nature of this relationship stems from mutual respect, trust, and close friendship. India’s unwavering commitment to maintaining robust ties with the Maldives is evidenced by the numerous developmental initiatives supported by the Indian government, he said.

Citing the ‘Maldives First’ policy of President Dr Mohamed Miuzzu, Minister Dr Khaleel stressed the Administration’s foreign policy focused on strengthening ties with all countries. “During the visit of President Dr Muizzu, India committed a USD 400 million currency swap and that was arranged immediately right after the visit. That USD 400 million has given ease to the financial situation at the moment the Maldives is facing,” the minister stated.

“And, we also discussed during the visit a local currency settlement agreement as well. The MoU [Memorandum of Understanding] was signed, and we are working to facilitate that as well. Besides that, several other assistances were also provided by India. An MVR 100 million, which is approximately USD 6 million, worth of high-impact community development programs were granted to the Maldives.”

The foreign minister also noted cooperation between the two neighbours in the defence sector and regional security of the Indian Ocean region. One of the largest developmental initiatives currently progressing in the Maldives is the Malé-Thilafushi bridge project, carried out with Indian assistance. Citing this, Minister Dr Khaleel highlighted President Dr Muizzu’s efforts to expedite the project through high-level meetings with officials from both nations.

Projects to develop 4,000 housing units are also advancing in the Maldives with Indian support. Minister Dr Khaleel described the Maldives as a highly favoured tourist destination, particularly renowned among prominent figures in the entertainment industry from India. He expressed confidence that India will remain a vital developmental partner for the Maldives and commended India’s dedication to assisting its neighbouring countries while simultaneously advancing its own development.

Minister Dr Khaleel affirmed that the foreign policy of President Dr Muizzu’s Administration is founded on fostering and sustaining bilateral and multilateral relations while safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and independence. He also conveyed his optimism regarding the future of India-Maldives relations, highlighting that significant progress has been made over the past year.

SOURCE : PSM

Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdulla Khaleel departs to the UAE on an official visit

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Abdulla Khaleel, departed yesterday for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on an official visit, on the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the UAE.

During the visit Minister Dr Khaleel will engage in high-level discussions with His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, to enhance bilateral relations, review the broad spectrum of bilateral cooperation and explore avenues for future cooperation. Minister will also have meetings with other dignitaries of the UAE government to explore collaborative initiatives, focusing on fostering partnerships and advancing mutual interests.

This visit reflects the enduring bilateral relationship between the Maldives and the UAE and highlights shared aspirations for development, innovation and prosperity.

Minister Dr Khaleel was accompanied by Abdullah Hameed, Ambassador-at-Large and Mariyam Reesha, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

SOURCE : Ministry of Foreign Affairs

President and First Lady convey New Year greetings to foreign dignitaries

His Excellency President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and First Lady Madam Sajidha Mohamed have conveyed greetings for the New Year 2025 to Heads of State and Governments of friendly nations.

In their greetings, the President and the First Lady wished for the new year to bring good fortune, success and happiness. They also extended greetings to the heads of international organisations and resident diplomatic missions.

SOURCE : The President’s Office

Students Back in School After Midterm Break

Thousands of students returned to school on Sunday after the 15-day midterm break.

According to the Ministry of Education, the second session of the academic year has begun in all schools across the country. The second term will continue until 6 March, which coincides with the Holy month of Ramadan.

The 2024 academic year commenced in May with over 96,000 students. According to the Ministry, 162 out of the 217 government schools will be single-session schools, while 55 schools will be operated in dual sessions. Additionally, six schools will implement satellite teaching.

The 2025 academic year is scheduled to commence on April 6, with teachers starting their preparation works from April 3 onwards. The first term holidays are from July 28 to August 7, with the second term set to start on August 10. 

However, students will be having a midterm break during the second term, from September 21-25. With this, the second term concludes on December 25 and the year-end holidays will officially begin on December 28. The annual holiday will last till January 22, and the academic year for 2026 is slated to commence on January 27.

The academic-year end holidays were shifted to June/July, in 2021, following a one-year and six-month delay of the 2020 academic year prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

However, as this period coincides with the rainy monsoon, public concerns were raised as there were significant challenges for families to travel and enjoy their holidays. The decision to shift the year-end holidays was taken against 70 percent backing the move in a public poll. 

During the presidential elections campaign, citizens requested President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to address this issue, and change the academic calendar, as to how it was before. After the president assumed office, he made the decision to gradually move the commencement date of the new academic year back to the beginning of the year.

This policy shift will take full effect starting in 2026.

SOURCE : PSM

Maldives to Fortify Early Warning Systems Against Climate Disasters

The Maldives is experiencing the severe and detrimental effects of climate change. Key issues include the escalation of tidal surges in coastal regions and heavy flooding during seasonal rains, both of which cause significant destruction to livelihoods, properties, and household items.

In response to these challenges, the Maldives recently endorsed the ‘Maldives Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy 2024-2030.’ The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has been diligently working to bolster the resilience of Maldivian communities against the adversities brought about by climate change.

The endorsement of the strategy by the National Disaster Management Council, chaired by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, underscores the priority that the President and his Administration place on mitigating the risks and impacts of climate change.

The strategy concentrates on seven primary areas to mitigate the damage caused by natural and other forms of disasters. These areas include establishing a legal framework for disaster management, conducting multi-hazard risk assessments, enhancing the resilience of urban areas and the natural environment, boosting community resilience and capacity to deal with disasters, strengthening early warning systems, increasing financial capacity to address and recover from disasters, and fostering sustainable traditions for disaster management.

NDMA Chief Executive Officer Hisan Hassan underscored that the new strategy will serve as a blueprint for future disaster preparedness and will function as a roadmap to enhance resilience and mitigation efforts. “The Maldives is actively engaging in significant international treaties and agreements, participating at the forefront. Our efforts to enhance resilience and risk reduction encompass strengthening early warning systems and increasing the capacity of the personnel responsible for overseeing these systems,” he said.

The ‘Maldives Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy 2024-2030’ is designed to anticipate, reduce, and manage the risks associated with both natural and man-made disasters, including those induced by climate change. Its primary objective is to minimise disaster damage by addressing the root causes of risks and vulnerabilities in the natural and built environment, residential areas, and infrastructure.

The strategy seeks to foster community resilience by prioritising the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Its ratification will enable the reduction and mitigation of disaster-related risks and contribute to building human capacity in the field of disaster risk reduction, according to the Government.

Additionally, the strategy aims to bolster the Maldives’ global advocacy efforts against climate change, with a particular emphasis on the risks faced by Small Island Developing States (SIDS). An annex of the strategy is dedicated to enhancing resilience efforts and improving efficiency through the newly established Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Strategy and the National Adaptation Plan, both of which are being developed in accordance with the Paris Agreement.

SOURCE : PSM

2024: A Landmark Year for Fisheries Industry with Payments Ensured Within 48 Hours

Fishing is the third-largest economic sector in the Maldives. However, until recently, the significant challenges faced by the industry has not been adequately addressed by any administration. 

A major concern for years has been the difficulty fishermen face in receiving timely payment for their catch. While the current Administration under President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has pledged to address this issue and pay fishermen for their catch within 48 hours of fish purchase, critics have questioned the feasibility of this promise. However, the Administration has delivered on this pledge, with President Dr Muizzu announcing the pledge as successfully fulfilled on Fishermen’s Day 2024. Since then, fishermen have consistently received payments within the promised 48-hour timeframe. 

The current Administration will undoubtedly go down in history as the Administration to bring about transformative changes to the fisheries sector within its first in office. This Administration has increased fishermen’s participation and contributions to the sector through Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company Ltd (MIFCO), which has been upgraded as a 100 per cent Government owned company. Efforts are also ongoing to compile a national registry of fishermen. 

Within the first year of Administration, a 100-percent Government-owned company designated for promoting fish products and increasing fishing sector revenue has also been established. 

While it is also a pledge of the Government to train one rescue diver for every fishing boat, 56 rescue divers — one each for 56 boats— have already been successfully trained in the first batch as part of the Week 14 Roadmap. 

The Government has also designated four areas as mariculture development zones. These zones include islands and lagoons in the following areas: 

- Boduthiladhunmathi (Haa Dhaalu and Shaviyani Atoll) Mariculture Zone 

- Maalhos Madulu Uthuruburi (Raa Atoll) Mariculture Zone 

- Malaku Atoll (Meemu Atoll) Mariculture Zone 

- Kolhumadulu Atoll (Thaa Atoll) Mariculture Zone 

The current Administration’s manifesto has emphasised that every fishermen will be recognised by the government. As part of these efforts, loan facilities are now available for grouper fishery and the installation of RSW systems on fishing vessels to address the issue of ice shortage. 

The primary challenge faced in getting the best benefit from the fisheries industry is the lack of capacity to store and process fish in the Maldives. The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources under President Dr Muizzu’s Government is giving special priority to increase the fish storage capacity to 25,000 tonnes over the next five years, and establishing more fish processing plants. 

Building human capacity in the fisheries sector is also a high priority for the government. A special college under the Maldives National University (MNU) is being established to commence fisheries-related courses under efforts to equip the youth with skills and knowledge required to advance the industry. 

SOURCE : PSM 

Maldives Records Nine Percent Hike in Tourist Arrivals in 2024

Maldives has recorded a nine per cent increase in tourist arrivals in 2024 in comparison to the previous year. 

The world renowned tourist destination witnessed the highest number of tourist arrivals in a single year in its 52 year tourism history in 2024. 

According to tourism figures, a total of 2,047,435 tourists had holidayed in the Maldives in 2024. This is a nine percent increase from the 1,878,543 tourists from 2023. 

This marks the first time Maldives has welcomed two million tourists to its shores in a calendar year. 

The island nation had broken several national records to cross the two million mark including the month with the highest number of tourist arrivals in February with 217,392 tourists. 

According to the Ministry of Tourism, the top tourist source markets in 2024 are China, Russia, the UK, Germany and Italy. 

More than 200,000 tourists had arrived from China and Russia while over 100,000 tourists had visited from the UK, Germany and Italy, according to the 2024 tourism figures. 

The Government aims to improve tourism occupancy and bring in 15 percent more tourists this year than last year, while boosting tourism revenue to USD5 billion. 

SOURCE : PSM

Maldivian Expects Wide-Body Operations to Augment Tourism, Trade

The launch of wide-body aircraft operations will significantly expand Maldives’ tourism and trade, national flag carrier, Maldivian said Sunday.

The first of Maldivian’s newly acquired wide-body aircraft is scheduled to arrive on Monday. The acquisition of the Airbus A330 marks a historic milestone for both the airline and the country’s aviation industry.

Speaking on PSM News’ “Raajje Miadhu” programme, Maldivian’s Chief Commercial Officer Ismail Amrah Umar said the wide-body aircraft will commence operations to three destinations in China this month.

The operations will provide a much needed boost for local businesses, Amrah said, especially with the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China now in effect.

“We are launching the wide-body aircraft to three destinations in China this month. That is to Beijing, Shanghai and Chengdu. We will have direct access to all three destinations which in turn opens the door to cargo transportation,” he explained.

“The wide-body aircraft can carry over 10 tonnes of cargo on each flight. So this will open a gateway of opportunity for our businesses”.

In addition to trade, Maldivian’s wide-body operations will also augment the country’s tourism industry, Amrah said.

China remains the largest tourism source market for the Maldives, with the highest number of tourist arrivals last year.

“If a tourist departs from Beijing and travels on Maldivian, then the door will be open to travel seamlessly with just one ticket to the final destination. Tourism can become complete with this,” he said.

According to Maldivian, the new aircraft will accommodate 324 passengers across three cabin classes: economy, business and premium. The flight’s operation is expected to bring in an extra 60,000 passengers annually.

The Maldivian’s current fleet includes over 20 aircraft. Maldivian is planning to expand its wide-body operations to Europe after China.

SOURCE : PSM

MWSC Seeks to Expand Portfolio to Boost Revenue

The Malé Water and Sewerage Company (MWSC) has set in motion plans to diversify and expand its portfolio in a bid to increase its revenue, the State-owned utility firm’s Managing Director Abdul Matheen Mohamed has revealed.

Founded in 1995, MWSC is primarily tasked with providing safe water and sewerage services. The company recently initiated efforts to expand its business portfolio in a bid to manage its operations through its revenue.

As one of the key objectives in its new direction, MWSC is looking to revise its service to revenue ratio.

Speaking to PSM News’ “Raajje Miadhu” programme, MD Matheen said the company’s revenue portfolio currently accounts for 55 per cent from water and sewerage services, while the rest is generated as non-utility revenue.

However, MWSC is aiming to boost its non-utility revenue by expanding the company’s business portfolio to 60 per cent of total revenue in order to ensure financial sustainability, he said.

“As a company moving towards a better model, we are now aiming to increase the non-utility ratio while also working to reduce the company’s utility ratio to 45 per cent. This will enable our water services to be affordable and sustainable,” Matheen explained.

MWSC’s utility services mainly include providing water services to the capital Male’ region. The company is also responsible for water, electricity and sewerage as well as waste management services in Raa Atoll Dhuvaafaru.

In addition to utility services, MWSC is also carrying out various projects to establish water and sewerage services in several islands across the Maldives.

MWSC has secured new projects worth USD 84 million spanning more than 20 islands in 2024 while expanding its sales of bottled drinking water.

MWSC last month 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 expansion of the company’s business portfolio. 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.

SOURCE : PSM

Visit Maldives’ Largest Global Campaign ‘The World’s Biggest Giveaway’ featuring 52 Holiday Giveaways Officially Kicks Off

The “World’s Biggest Giveaway,” the largest global campaign for 2025 organised by the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC/Visit Maldives), has officially kicked off today. Announced at World Travel Market (WTM) London on November 5th, 2024, this year-long initiative will award 52 free holidays, one for each week of 2025, starting from 1st January 2025.

This exciting campaign will unfold through a series of monthly social media contests on Visit Maldives’ platforms. Each month, four lucky winners will be drawn, receiving incredible raffle prizes. These 52 contests will showcase the Maldives’ diverse offerings, from pristine beaches and vibrant culture to thrilling diving adventures and luxurious retreats, with special focus on the different segments such as romance, luxury, family, diving and other appealing segments that the Maldives is renowned for.

The World’s Biggest Giveaway Campaign aims to elevate the Maldives’ global standing as a premier travel destination by attracting a community of travel enthusiasts through active social media participation. This global initiative invites individuals worldwide to participate, offering them the chance to explore the Maldives’ unique attractions, experience its diverse offerings firsthand, and contribute to promoting the Maldives as a year-round destination. Simultaneously, it aims to provide potential visitors with valuable insights into the Maldives’ diverse tourism offerings to increase bookings further. 

Visit Maldives is dedicated to retaining the Maldives’ position as the World’s Leading Destination. The overall goal for 2025 is to ensure consistent quarterly activity in the top 25 markets, supplemented by major summer campaigns and a robust public relations push. Visit Maldives is actively seeking to cultivate strong industry partnerships in 2025 to achieve collective success across all our initiatives.

SOURCE : Visit Maldives