The Maldives aims to become “a leader and a benchmark in Halal Tourism,” President Muizzu announced, with designated islands and incentives for investors. The government also intends to pursue a “multi-pronged approach of targeted concessions, incentives, investments in public infrastructure, and focused marketing strategies” to develop tourism in atolls without many resorts.
Economic Minister Saeed denied media reports about a Maldives-Sri Lanka commercial zone with free movement, which was “not something that has even been imagined or discussed so far.”
The upcoming MDP congress in August will consider a proposal to merge the posts of president and chairperson with the new leader barred from holding any other government position or elected office or from seeking the party’s presidential ticket, Chairman Fayyaz Ismail revealed during an interview with Sangu TV.
Citing a new forex law that made it mandatory to exchange a portion of foreign currency earnings, seaplane operator Trans Maldivian Airways notified pilots that 20 percent of their salaries will be paid in Maldivian Rufiyaa, Mihaaru reported.
The Met office warned of swell surges during high tide as waves crashed ashore in Malé’s eastern waterfront, a seasonal occurrence during the southwest monsoon. Police advised against crossing the Sinamalé bridge on motorcycles.
The handover of 4,000 social housing flats will begin in July with agreements signed for 25 years, the housing minister told state media.
Ooredoo concluded its annual “Fun Run” with more than 3,000 participants in Addu City.
Two students and a teacher injured in a dangerous accident in Raa Fainu on Thursday night remained on ventilator support at IGMH. The condition of the island school principal, who was also injured when the minors crashed into the adults on a speeding motorbike, had stabilised at the Raa Ungoofaaru hospital.