At a four-hour meeting with a parliamentary committee reviewing a controversial media regulation bill, journalists from 22 outlets opposed the proposed creation of a new regulator with sweeping punitive powers. All but one urged MPs to scrap the legislation in favour of drafting a new bill after proper research and consultation to strengthen the existing self-regulatory mechanism. In its comments on the bill, the Human Rights Commission advised against merging the separate regulatory bodies for broadcasting and print or online media. The watchdog flagged provisions that would require individuals to seek authorisation to blog, post content or express opinions online.
The missing Kolama boat from Gaaf Alif Kolamaafushi was located on Monday afternoon after it went radio silent en route from Laamu atoll on the previous night, police told the media. Adam Saeed, the boat's Maldivian captain, was found dead when a boat from Villingili went to retrieve the crew. The cause of death remains unclear.
MDP decided to stage a mass demonstration in Malé on October 3. The main opposition party's national council adopted a resolution to protest against the media regulation bill, the ruling party's dismissal of Supreme Court justices and restrictions on the financial autonomy of local councils.
In his statement at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit in China, President Muizzu called for greater inclusion of small island developing states in international decision-making processes. He also called upon the international community to "stand united in advocating justice, dignity, and peace for the people of Palestine."
Fines worth MVR 150,000 (US$ 9,700) were imposed on 30 individuals during August for violating the vaping ban, including 14 cases of using a vape and 16 cases of possession of a vaping device or e-cigarette.
The national carrier Maldivian announced a 15 percent reduction in fares for independent tourists who travel without the assistance of an agency or tour operator.
