Bank of Maldives reported its highest ever net profit after tax of MVR 2.5 billion (US$ 162 million) for 2025, a 9.8 percent increase from the previous year. The board has approved a dividend of MVR 60 per share – totalling MVR 323 million (US$ 20.9 million) – alongside a 2-for-1 bonus share issue aimed at boosting market capitalisation. BML's total investments in government T-bills, bonds, and other instruments also grew to MVR 20 billion, up MVR 6 billion from 2024.
A key defence witness in the trial of former Immigration Controller Mohamed Shamaan Waheed testified at Criminal Court that a bag brought to Shamaan's apartment on the night in question contained a sandwich, and not cash as alleged by the state. The witness, a close friend of Shamaan, said he opened the door when the two immigration officers arrived, took a piece of the sandwich from the bag, and saw nothing unusual, adding that Shamaan was asleep in his room and never met the officers that night. The state alleges the bag contained MVR 500,000 extorted from a detained foreign national who was released on Shamaan's orders.
Police announced an auction of 787.35 kg of export-banned sea cucumbers seized during an investigation into their alleged theft from a Thilafushi warehouse in December, with bidding set for March 9 at Dhoonidoo. The items, belonging to a Chinese national and valued at over MVR 2 million, were allegedly moved and concealed by a police officer and an MPL employee. An investigating officer in the case was suspended pending a Professional Standards inquiry.
The Civil Service Commission amended its regulations to allow civil servants who are parents or legal guardians of registered disabled children to work from home. Those caring for children requiring full daily assistance were granted permanent remote work, and others were permitted to do so when circumstances require. The amendment, which takes effect next month, also introduces flexible buffer time and extended breaks to help caregivers manage daily responsibilities. It follows President Muizzu's announcement of the policy in this year's presidential address.
The housing ministry opened for proposals for a public-private partnership to build 1,000 flats across five plots in Hulhumalé Phase 3, targeting first-time homebuyers. Two-bedroom units of at least 700 sq ft will be capped at MVR 1.8 million (US$ 116,700), while three-bedroom units of at least 950 sq ft will be capped at MVR 2.3 million, with developers required to complete the project within 30 months. The proposal deadline is March 23. The ministry also extended the application deadline for its 'Housing for All' program until the end of April.
Ahmed Nimal, one of the Maldives' most celebrated film directors, passed away at IGMH after spending nearly two months on a ventilator following a stroke he suffered while riding his motorcycle on December 31. Nimal, 62, made his acting debut in 1984 and rose to fame as the writer, director, and actor of the iconic 1993 film "Sitee. His other acclaimed films include "Zalzala," "Yoosuf," and "Niuma."
Nashwa Abdulla was dismissed as the chairwoman of Fahi Dhiriulhun Corporation, the Privatisation and Corporatisation Board announced. The reason for her dismissal is unclear.
The transport ministry re-issued its warning prohibiting vessels from crossing the three channels between Malé, Vilimalé, Gulhifalhu, and Thilafushi, where construction of the Thilamalé bridge is ongoing.
After UK Reform leader Nigel Farage told the Commons the Maldives is "upset" about the proposed UK-Mauritius sovereignty deal, the UK government insisted there is "no pause" in its plan to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. It came hours after Foreign Office Minister Hamish Falconer told MPs the legislative process was being paused for "discussions" with the United States. The deal, worth £101 million annually for 99 years to retain the Diego Garcia military base, faces mounting pressure after President Trump publicly urged Prime Minister Starmer to scrap it, while the bill enabling the transfer has stalled in the House of Lords since January.
Malé City Council denied media reports about an MVR 25 million contract handed out to create street name boards in Malé and Villimalé. Contrary to claims falsely attributed to Deputy Mayor Areesh, the project was awarded for MVR 3.9 million to a party selected among seven bidders. The MVR 25 million was the total amount proposed by all seven bidders, it noted.
President Muizzu issued three presidential decrees redefining the administrative jurisdiction of Addu City, designating Hulhudhoo and Meedhoo as separate inhabited islands following a public referendum held in October 2025. The changes, enacted under the Decentralisation Act, have been published in the government gazette.
The President's Office announced government offices will close from Monday, March 9 for the final 10 days of Ramadan, designating the period as official holidays to promote worship and Islamic values. Authorities have been instructed to maintain essential services and inform the public of operating hours during the closure.
