Japan relief fund recieves more than 7 million rufiyyah in less than 37 hrs
Maldives has raised more than 7 million Ruffiya in the televised fundraisers in less than 37 hours for quake and disaster hit Japan. Relief telethons held from Friday till lastnight 12:00, Maldivians donated more than 7 million Ruffiya to help to help the people of Japan whose lives were torn apart by an earthquake, a tsunami, and now, a nuclear scare.

More than 18000 forms recieved for Veshifahi Male' program-Pres.
President Mohamed Nasheed has said that more than 18000 application forms for housing schemes under Veshi Fahi Malé Programme have been dispersed so far. President Nasheed said this during his this week's Friday address to the people. In this week´s radio address, President Mohamed Nasheed highlighted the government´s progress towards achieving its housing pledge – building 10000 housing units to provide affordable housing for the people.

Gasim sets a record in providing aid to Japan relief funds and urges all people to join in the event
Chairman of Villa Group, Gasim Ibrahim has set a record in providing assistane to the Japan releif funds yesterday. Horizon Fisheries and Villa Trading Company, owned by Gasim Ibrahim yesterday donated 1800 (86400 cans) cases of fish cans. In the market, the total price is 1296000 Maldivian Ruffiya. Local philanthropist, Gasim Ibrahim also urged all people to participate in these events to show their solidarity with Japan, underscoring Japan´s continuous assistance and support for the development of the Maldives. Gasim discussed the events lead by Malé City Council to show Maldivian´s solidarity with the people of Japan following the widespread loss of life and huge devastation caused by earthquake and consequent tsunami that hit Japan on 11 March.

Maldives tourism industry is built upon the blood, sweat and tears of our very own pioneers- Zulfa
Minister of Toursim Mariyam Zulfa has said that Maldives tourism industry has been built upon the blood , sweat and tears of our very own pioneers. Minister Zulfa said this at the inauguration ceremony of the Hilton-Worldwide group's sea-plane lounge at Male' International Airport yesterday.

Young Muslims Advisory Group (YMAG) calls upon the Commissioner of Police
Four representatives from Young Muslims Advisory Group (YMAG) along with Ms. Shahula Ali, Political and Press Officer of the British High Commission to the Maldives in Colombo met with the Commissioner of Police Ahmed Faseeh this morning and discussed topics such as Police -Youth engagement and how Maldivian Police authorities dealt with religious extremism in Maldives.

Immortal 21st February, Language Martyr’s Day and International Mother Language Day observed by the High Commission of Bangladesh in Maldives

International Mother Language Day, proclaimed by the UN’s Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1999 was celebrated by the Bangladesh High Commission, Male’ at the Social Centre in the Maldives with due solemnity.

Maldives Seeks "Smooth Transition" for World's Poorest Nations
When the environmentally-threatened Indian Ocean island of Maldives "graduated" from the ranks of least developed countries (LDCs) to a middle-income country last January, the graduation was characterised as a milestone in the country's socioeconomic development.

Rescue South Africa team, journos en route to Japan
Rescue South Africa, along with its group of 10 journalists from various media houses, finally left for Japan yesterday evening, Wednesday, 16 March 2011, on a chartered plane, according to various media reports.

Lanka-Maldives enhance counter-terrorism co-operation
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the Maldives’ National Central Bureau (NCB) are currently co-operating to crack down on terrorist suspects, who use Sri Lanka and the Maldives as transit hubs. A senior officer from the CID, speaking to Haveeru on grounds of anonymity, said that the co-operation between the two countries is part of a bilateral agreement, signed in 2009 by both countries, to share intelligence and exchange information related to terror suspects. “We have been coordinating with Interpol and the Maldivian authorities to nab terrorist suspects. We have received information on individuals who are on the wanted list in the Maldives. We are keeping a watchful eye on those who visit Sri Lanka since we have learnt from past experiences that international fugitives use the Maldives and Sri Lanka as transit destinations,” he said.

Western warplanes, missiles hit Libyan targets
Western forces hit targets along the Libyan coast on Saturday, using strikes from air and sea to force Muammar Gaddafi's troops to cease fire and end attacks on civilians. French planes fired the first shots in what is the biggest international military intervention in the Arab world since the 2003 invasion of Iraq, destroying tanks and armored vehicles in the region of the rebels' eastern stronghold, Benghazi. Hours later, U.S. and British warships and submarines launched 110 Tomahawk missiles against air defenses around the capital Tripoli and the western city of Misrata, which has been besieged by Gaddafi's forces, U.S. military officials said.

Discover Maldives with Dilan’s yacht tours
A yacht is known as a ‘liveaboard’ in Asia. 100 ft long and 30 ft wide, with an average number of 4 to 15 cabins, they can provide a different and exciting holiday. Travel professional Dilan Jay is now offering yacht tours in Maldives to those travellers who want to enjoy, explore and experience the Asian surf breaks, dive sites and the Asian ‘liveaboards’. His new tour is geared to provide the best information available on Asian surf breaks and scuba diving and cruising. Whether you are into diving, surfing, game fishing or just cruising, a liveaboard is a dream holiday. South East Asia and the Indian Ocean are the world’s hotspot of marine biodiversity and therefore the most ideal region for liveaboards. Few places enjoy richer waters or such an abundance of marine life. The ‘liveaboard’ industry in this region has proliferated immensely in the last couple of years with the diverse options the region offers - from cruising along the Maldive Islands with its white sandy beaches and turquoise lagoons to surfing and diving.

                 19 March 2011 | Saturday                 

Maldives Welcomes UN Security Council Resolution Imposing Libya No Fly Zone
The Maldives welcomes United Nations Security Resolution 1973, which imposes a no-fly zone over Libya. The Resolution further permits the international community to take all necessary measures, short of a sending in a foreign occupation force, to protect civilians under threat of attack in the country. The Maldives hopes the international community’s intervention will protect the Libyan people and help bring about Colonel Gaddafi and his regime’s speedy removal from power. Earlier this week, the Maldives called on the international community to take robust action, including the imposing of a no-fly zone, in order to protect the people of Libya.

President´s Weekly Radio Address: Considerable Progress Made Towards Achieving the Government´s Housing Pledge
In this week´s radio address, President Mohamed Nasheed highlighted the government´s progress towards achieving its housing pledge – building 10000 housing units to provide affordable housing for the people. He revealed that construction of a total of 4710 housing units were contracted while construction of 1780 housing units were already underway. Construction of housing units are in progress in Gaaf Dhaal Atoll Thinadhoo, Seenu Atoll Feydhoo, Gaaf Alif Kolamaafushi, Haa Dhaal Atoll Kulhudhuffushi, and Lhaviyani Atoll Naifaru. The President said 40 percent of the work of constructing 25 housing units being build on each of these islands was now complete.

Japan battles nuclear, humanitarian crisis
Japan battled a nuclear and humanitarian crisis Saturday, with engineers desperate to restore power to a stricken power plant in what the UN's top atomic expert said was a "race against time". Half a million people made homeless when the huge tsunami razed Japan's northeast coast were suffering in appalling conditions, struggling to stay warm in freezing temperatures and with scant supplies of food and fuel.

Veteran rescuers stunned by Japan damage

Picking through the wreckage of the port city of Ofunato on Japan's northeast coast, burly members of the Los Angeles County Fire Department are an incongruous sight.

Scotland plans largest tidal energy farm
Scotland says it will develop a tidal energy farm expected to yield 10 megawatts of electricity, the largest tidal energy project ever undertaken in the world. The project, looking like an underwater wind farm, will take advantage of steady sea currents that flow through underwater canyon walls in the sound of Islay off the southwest coast of Scotland, PhysOrg.com reported Friday.

Indonesia issues red alert as volcano erupts

Indonesia issued a red alert Friday after Mount Karangetang on the island of Sulawesi erupted, sending lava and searing gas clouds down its slopes, a volcanologist said. "We raised the volcano's status to the highest red alert level today at 5:45 pm (1045GMT) and ordered an evacuation in three villages on the slopes," government volcanologist Surono told AFP.

                 18 March 2011 | Friday                 

Development should be measured in terms of the development of human resources-Pres.
President Mohamed Nasheed has visited Kurendhoo of Lhaviyani Atoll to attend the 25th anniversary celebrations of Lhaviyani Atoll School in Kurendhoo. Speaking at the ceremony held at Lhaviyani Atoll School yesterday, President Nasheed reiterated that development and progress should be measured in terms of the development of human resources and not on the basis how many buildings or concrete structures were build on an island.

MDP meets EC to expedite process of membership forms
Ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has met with the officials of the Elections Commission (EC) to expedite the process of membership forms sent to the commission in order to expand the electorate of the party for the upcoming MDP elections to be held on April 30, 2011. MDP Secretary General Hassan Shah said that in this meeting, the president of the Elections Commissions Fuad Thaufeeg assured the party that the commission will fully assist the party in expediting the process of the membership forms. Shah said that the commission appealed the party to send all the membership forms prior to one week of the elections date. According to MDP elections 2011 guidelines, only members who registered with the elections commission before March 30, 2011 can participate in the elections to be held next month.

Elections Rivalry should not lead to enemity-Hamza
Bilehdhoo MP, Ahmed Hamza has appealed to his fellow members at the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) not to make their rivalry during the internal party elections to lead to enemity and hatred between the members. Hamza called the members to compete in the elections not surpassing the boundaries set by democratic principles and values. Speaking at MDP Haruge last night, Hamza who is a nomininee for the MDP Parliamentary Group president, said that MDP is the party which introduced democracy to the Maldives. He also said that MDP sets an example as the ideal democratic party which is emulated by all the other political parties of the country. Hamza underscored that election rivalries should not lead to any form of enemity and hatred between fellow members. He said that the members should all work for the betterment of the party under the guaidance of President Mohamed Nasheed.

VP meets UK’s Young Muslim Advisory Group team
Vice President Dr Mohamed Waheed has met with the group of youth from United Kingdom’s Young Muslims Advisory Group (YMAG) currently in the Maldives on a study tour. Discussions held during the meeting were focused on observations of the group in their three day tour to assess the role of women in Islam and the Maldivian society. During their visit to the Maldives, they have visited Kulhudhuffushi and Hanimaadhoo, and held an interactive session with the students from Centre for Higher Secondary Education in Male’. Vice President Dr Waheed spoke on the role of women in Maldivian society, and external and internal factors inhibiting participation of Muslims as active members within their societies around the world. The Vice President also highlighted on Islamic unity in the Maldives and the importance of an Islamic democracy. The Young Muslims Advisory Group spoke on their observations of youth initiatives in Britain to increase the civic participation of young Muslims.

Performance of parties should be judged on the extent to which women are active in them – VP
Vice President Dr Mohamed Waheed attended the launch of the ‘Women on Public Life in the Maldives’ report and ‘Strides’ documentary, by the United Nations Development Programme. ‘Women in Public Life in the Maldives’ report is a snapshot of women’s participation and leadership in public life, and the political, economic and social obstacles women in face in public life.

Phase 2 of 1,500 housing units development by CMEC signed
The signing ceremony for development of one thousand five hundred housing units development in Maldives was held yesterday morning at Dharubaaruge. This is the phase 2 of the project which is funded through Government to Government finance facilitated by the Government of China.

Preparations underway to commence the works of NGIS
A meeting was held at the Ministry of Housing and Environment yesterday to discuss the National Geographic Information System (NGIS) that is being designed and produced under the Maldives Environmental Management Project (MEMP). Under discussion were the installation of the ArcGIS server software for the system and the geo-database model that is to be set up using the NGIS.

UN Adopts Maldives Human Rights Report
United Nations Human Rights Council yesterday adopted the Maldives' Universal Periodic Review (UPR) outcome report containing a summary of the human rights situation in the country and a series of recommendations by the Maldives' international partners as to how the situation could be improved.

Maldives underlines the importance of continuing the debate on climate change and human rights

Speaking during the General Debate on the Report of the Social Forum in the Human Rights Council, Iruthisham Adam has stressed the importance of addressing climate change and human rights challenges noting the negative implications of climate changes on the full enjoyment of human rights.

Cuomo Wants To Shut New York's Indian Point Nuke Plant
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo now wants to shut the Indian Point nuclear power plant, after it emerged the plant was leaking, according to Metro. The plant is, according to the U.S. government, the most under threat from an earthquake. Yesterday, the Union of Concerned Scientists released a report that said the facility had been leaking since 1993, and that a lining meant to catch leaks in the event of an earthquake was already open. Now, in the wake of Fukushima, Cuomo may actually take action on a facility that is only 38 miles from New York City.

Don't miss: The 13 countries most exposed to a nuclear industry backlash >

Indian shares down for 2nd straight wk; Reliance Ind dives
Indian shares declined for a second week in a row, shedding 1.5 percent on Friday, dragged by index heavyweight Reliance Industries (RELI.BO) as a source said gas output next year at key fields in its main producing block may drop 12 percent from current levels. Dealers expect the market to trade in a narrow range until quarterly earnings announcements, which would begin next month. Reliance has written to the upstream regulator indicating gas output from the D1 and D3 fields in the Krishna-Godavari basin KG-D6 block may fall to 38 million standard cubic metres per day (mscmd) during 2012/13 from 42-43 mscmd now, the source, with knowledge of the letter, said on Friday. After market hours, Reliance said in a statement the figures were "purely provisional and indicative," adding projections on gas output could vary.

Cuts could cripple US tsunami warning: Official
US Commerce Secretary Gary Locke warned Thursday that deep spending cuts sought by the White House's Republican foes could cripple the country's abilities to monitor tsunamis or severe weather. "Just from a math level, there's no way that we can avoid compromising the programs that safeguard our country -- we're going to have to make some very, very tough choices," Locke told a key House of Representatives panel.

TEPCO asked to pull workers from nuclear plant: report
Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO) asked the Japanese government earlier this week to permit a full withdrawal of its employees from the troubled nuclear plant now facing fears of a meltdown, a daily said Friday. TEPCO had first concluded that it would be "difficult" for its workers to continue to restore the Fukushima No.1 nuclear plant, where high levels of radiation have been monitored, the Mainichi Shimbun said. TEPCO sounded out the plan on Monday after explosions and fire hit the nuclear reactors crippled by a massive earthquake and tsunami.

                 17 March 2011 | Thursday                 

Airport was leased to GMR without Majlis consent-Thasmeen
Leader of the main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), Ahmed Thasmeen Ali has said that Male’ International Airport was leased to Indian GMR Infrastructure and Malaysian Airports Holdings without the consent of the Peoples’ Majlis. Thasmeen said this in his response to the Presidential Address, yesterday at yesterday’s sitting of the Peoples’ Majlis.

Maldives can be developed only by annulling foreign expat quota-Abdul Ghafoor
Kulhudhufushi Uthuru MP, Abdul Ghafoor has said that Maldives can only be developed and thrived by annulling the quota for bringing foreign expatriates and by implementing good management of the foreign expatriates entering the country.

WHO hands over critical medical equipment to Hithadhoo Regional Hospital
On Monday 14 March 2011, Dr J.M. Luna, WHO Representative to the Republic of Maldives, handed over to Hussain Rasheed, Managing Director of the Southern Health Services Corporation, critical medical equipment requested by President Mohamed Nasheed, for Hithadhoo Regional Hospital.

Solar-Diesel Hybrid project in Maldives
A meeting was held yesterday at the Ministry of Housing and Environment with officials from Kansai Electric Power Co., Inc, Ministry of Housing and Environment, President’s Office, Ministry of Finance and STELCO to discuss on developing a solar pilot project for a small island of the Maldives.

SAARC prepares drafts for regional standards
An Expert Group Meeting of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) member countries held in the Bangladeshi capital Dhaka finalised the texts of separate drafts on SAARC Agreements on Multilateral Arrangement on Recognition of Conformity Assessment and SAARC Agreement on Implementation of Regional Standards, SAARC Secretariat in Kathmandu said on Wednesday.

WHO brings together partners for health in South-East Asia
The conference of “Partners for Health in South-East Asia” organized by the World Health Organization was inaugurated by Mr Ghulam Nabi Azad, Minister of Health & Family Welfare, India, today. Ministers from 11 Member States along with high-level representatives from donor countries are attending the conference.

Component 2 of Training of Trainers & Int. Benchmarking completed
A Briefing Session was held with Minister of State for Education, Dr. Ahmed Ali Manik, after completion of Component 2 of Training of Trainers & International Benchmarking: Curriculum Leadership and Competency Based Training Project by Maldives Qualification Authority (MQA) on 15th March 2011 (Tuesday) at 15:00 at Ministry of Education.

Terror suspect arrested in Maldives
A Maldivian national wanted in connection with a 2007 terror bombing attack has been arrested less than six hours after his passport triggered an INTERPOL alarm as he travelled from Pakistan to the Maldives via Sri Lanka, states an Interpol media release.

Fabulous Family Freebies In The Maldives At Vilu Reef Beach & Spa Resort
The small island retreat of Vilu Reef Beach & Spa Resort in the South Nilandhe Atoll, Maldives is ideal for active families looking to ditch the deckchair this summer or for couples with young children looking for an authentic Maldivian baby-moon. What’s more, the resort is offering fantastic free giveaways (worth up to US$120) during June and July including a Bubblemaker diving introduction and a catamaran excursion - pending on how adventurous the kids are feeling! For parents who dive and who would like their children to fully explore the Indian Ocean’s underwater world too, Vilu Reef’s Gold Palm dive centre offers the PADI Bubblemaker free of charge throughout June and July when one parent books a dive session. An introduction to scuba diving for children aged eight plus, this course teaches how to safely use the equipment and gives the kids a chance to experience diving for themselves while in the direct care and supervision of a fully qualified PADI professional.

Japan disaster: Insured losses at $12-25 bn
Japan's devastating earthquake and tsunami last week have resulted in insured losses of between $12 and $25 billion, risk assessment firm EQECAT said Wednesday. EQECAT said the epic magnitude-9.0 quake that struck Japan Friday and the ensuing massive tsunami were piling up "significant losses" to the insurance industry.

US high-pressure pumps go to ailing Japan reactor
The US military said Wednesday it had delivered high-pressure water pumps to Japan to help cool a stricken nuclear power plant as part of a US aid effort amid Japan's worst crisis since World War II.

                 15 March 2011 | Tuesday                 

Next best solution is for Gayoom to make a new political party-Mahloof
South Galolhu MP and President of the Youth Branch of the main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) Ahmed Mahloof has said given the current situation, the “next” best solution is for former President of Maldives and current founding leader of DRP, Dictator Maumoon Abdul Gayoom to make a new political party.

This award is the right of the people- of the Maldives: President
President Mohamed Nasheed has said that the highest distinct order of merit he received in Mauritus is the right of the people of Maldives. President Nasheed said this after returning to Male’ with First Lady Laila Ali yesterday after concluding their state visit to Mauritius from 11 to 13 March on the occasion of the National Day of Mauritius.

Appointing MD’s of debt responsible companies by Majlis
Primary debate on the amendment to the Company Act proposed by opposition Jumhooree Party parliamentary group member and Faresmathoda MP Ibrahim Muttalib has been concluded at yesterday’s session of the Peoples’ Majlis. The amendment states that the Managing Directors of the companies that the government has to take the responsibility of their debt shall be appointed by the President after proposing the nominees for the Majlis for approval. It also states that the nominees should be presented to the Majlis within a period of 40 days.
Opposition MPs said that such an amendment is necessary because of the government’s negligence in such issues. Galolhu Uthuru MP, Eva Abdullah said that now the only work done in the Majlis is to change every Act which states “President” to “Peoples’ Majlis.”

Maldives Provides Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Disaster Assistance
The Maldives is to provide emergency disaster supplies to Japan, following the devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit the north-east of the country on Friday. The Maldives has offered Japan in-kind assistance of 1,800 cases of canned Maldivian tuna, containing a total of 86,400 cans, to help feed a town affected by the disaster. Acting Foreign Minister Mohamed Aslam said it was "right and proper" for the Maldives to help Japan respond to the disaster. "Japan is a stalwart ally of the Maldives and our largest bilateral donor. Our relationship goes back many years with Japan supporting us in many sectors such as education and infrastructure. Japan also helped us when the devastating 2004 tsunami hit the Maldives and so the Maldives will stand by Japan during their time of need," said Aslam. The shipment of tuna is due to be sent to Japan shortly and will be dispatched to local disaster response officials. The Japanese earthquake and resulting tsunami has claimed hundreds of lives, while over 200,000 people have been forced to flee their homes.

VP expresses sympathy to Japan
Vice President Dr Mohamed Waheed has expressed sympathy at the tragic loss and widespread devastation in Japan caused by the massive earthquake and resulting tsunami that hit the north-east of the country of Friday. The Vice President expressed his sympathy to Japanese people and the government, meeting Akira Shimura, Chief Representative of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and volunteers of Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers (JOCV) working in the Maldives during his visit to JICA/JOCV office in Male’ yesterday.

EU Ambassadors praise democratic reforms and climate change actions
The Ambassador-Designate of the Republic of Maldives to Belgium and the European Union, H Ali Hussain Didi, has concluded a first series of courtesy visits with his counterparts representing various European Union Member States. In meetings with the EU representatives, including key countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany and France, the Ambassador-Designate briefed on focus areas such as the move to full democratization and subsequent efforts; the threat of climate change to the Maldives; H.E. President Nasheed’s engagement for the country to become carbon neutral by 2010; and the challenges of having graduated from Least Developed Country status in January 2011.

Statement by Mohamed Aslam, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Maldives On the occasion of Commonwealth Day
As we celebrate the Sixty-second Anniversary of the Commonwealth Day, it is important to note the role Maldives has been playing in the Commonwealth, and also at the developments we have achieved through Commonwealth partnerships and engagements. It is the aim of the Commonwealth Day to promote Commonwealth’s understanding on global issues, international co-operation and most importantly, to work to improve the lives of its citizens.

The magical Maldives
It might be the smallest Asian country in the world, but it is one of the most geologically amazing. Sophie Hazan discovers barefoot luxury in the Maldives. OFF the most southerly tip of India lies an archipelago of more than 1,000 tiny islands. Rings of vibrantly coloured coral enclose sandy beaches that are really the tips of a vast underwater mountain range. The reefs of these islands sustain countless tropical creatures and shelter the land from wind and waves from the Southern and Indian oceans. Welcome to the Maldives – an exotic collection of islands made almost entirely of water. The adventure begins as soon as you touch down at Male airport – a small piece of land located across from the islands’ capital of the same name

Dhiraagu to lay Fibre Optic Submarine Cable network system from North to South across the Maldives

Dhiraagu has signed a USD 21.7 million contract with NEC Corporation today on the 15th March 2011, to lay a fibre optic submarine cable network system from North to South across the entire Maldives. This is a major milestone in the history of Maldives that would revolutionize the landscape of telecommunication in the country.

Radiation leaks from nuclear plant in Japan
Japan's nuclear crisis reached new heights as a third explosion rocked the crippled Fukushima No. 1 power plant and officials acknowledged that the radioactive fuel inside one of the damaged reactors was in jeopardy of melting down. Radiation spewed today from the plant in northeastern Japan. The development prompted the government to tell people within 19 miles to stay indoors to avoid exposure. In extraordinary televised scenes, three executives from the utility that runs the damaged complex in Fukushima prefecture, about 150 miles north of Tokyo, acknowledged that pumps funneling seawater into one of the reactors had halted temporarily, a major setback in efforts to cool the superheated core. Prime Minister Naoto Kan, in a nationally televised statement, said radiation has spread from the three reactors of nuclear plant in one of the hardest-hit provinces in Friday's disaster. "The level seems very high, and there is still a very high risk of more radiation coming out," Kan said.

                 14 March 2011 | Monday                 

Gayoom’s comments will have no further affect on me- Thasmeen
Leader of the main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), Ahmed Thasmeen Ali has said that comments and criticism from DRP’s founding leader Maumoon Abdul Gayoom will have no further affect on him. Speaking to the media at the inauguration ceremony of “Coffee with DRP” campaign held at Raiveriya Restaurant yesterday evening, Thasmeen said that Gayoom has criticized his leadership using harsher words than that used even against President Nasheed.

It’s a blatant lie to claim that Al-Qaeda has a base in Maldives-Zuhair
No Al-Qaeda operations in Maldives-MNDF
Press Secretary of the President’s Office, Mohamed Zuhair has said that the claims made over some of the international media that Maldives has an Al-Qaeda base are baseless and that it is a blatant lie. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Press Secretary Zuhair said that Maldives always works for the protection of human rights and promotion of peace. He said that Maldives will never support any form of violence and violation of human rights.

No protection and no allowance to Mr. Corrupt Dictator Gayoom-Mustafa
Thimarafushi MP Mohamed Mustafa has said that no allowance or protection should be given to former President Dictator Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. He said that Gayoom has usurped the wealth of the people and has been corrupting the nation.

Decapitating the baby is a big transgression and a violation of human rights-Gasim
Leader of the opposition Jumhooree Party, Gasim Ibrahim has said that the recent decapitation of a baby during labour performed by the medical staff of IGMH to save the mother is a violation of human rights and a big transgression.

Maldives Works to Gain Support the Least Developed Economies
The Maldives Mission to the United Nations , in collaboration with the UN Office of the High Representative for Least Developed, Landlocked, and Small Island Countries (UN OHRLLS), convened a meeting today to discuss the smooth transition of countries that are identified for graduation from the list of Least Developed Counties (LDCs). Countries that are members of this list are entitled to financial and technical assistance that focus on the development challenges for the least developed economies in the world. Some of these benefits include providing for tariff free exports that are then made capable of competing with the same exports from larger countries that pay higher tariffs – making their goods more expensive than those of LDCs.

EU Ambassadors praise democratic reforms and climate change actions
The Ambassador-Designate of the Republic of Maldives to Belgium and the European Union, Ali Hussain Didi, has concluded a first series of courtesy visits with his counterparts representing various European Union Member States.

Pres. officiates Mauritius National Day celebrations
President Mohamed Nasheed has officiated the Mauritius National Day celebrations yesterday. He was also accompanied at the events by First Lady Laila Ali. President Nasheed is currently visiting Mauritius on the invitation from Prime Minister of Mauritius Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam to officiate the country’s National Day celebrations. Mauritius celebrates its National Day on 12 March, marking the anniversary of the country’s independence from British rule in 1968 and the establishment of a parliamentary republic in 1992. The colourful National Day celebrations in Mauritius yesterday were also attended by the President, the Prime Minister and other dignitaries of Mauritius.

Gayoom’s lawyer changes his earlier statement

Despite Mohamed Waheed, Lawyer of the former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom earlier statement that the media can only reveal any information based on the reports of the Auditor General (AG) only once, in yesterday’s hearing of Gayyoom’s defamation case against the Editor of Miadhu Daily, Gayoom’s lawyer tried to change his statement saying that he did not intend the earlier statement.

Jordan - a leader in Arab region in combating corruption
Jordan (Amman) - International experts have hailed Jordan as a leader in the region in combating corruption through a legislation package to deter abuse of office in public institutions.

Lecture Tour by Idris Tawfiq – In Pursuit of Truth
Bro.Idris Tawfiq from United Kingdom will be on a Lecture tour in Sri Lanka from the 18th to 21st of March 2011, with the theme “IN PURSUIT OF TRUTH on the invitation of Centre for Islamic Studies.
He will conduct public lectures and speeches to groups and students.

1. Public Lecture at Lower Bagatale Road Masjid, after Salaatul Isha on Friday 18th March 2011“Being the Best you can be - Essential Attributes of a Muslim”
(For Gents only)

2. Program for Da’ees at CIS “Ambassadors of Islam –Basics of Islamic Da’awa” 10.30 am Sunday 20th March 2011. Separate Seating for Ladies

3. Public Lecture at BMICH, Mihilak Medura, “My Journey to Islam – In search of Truth” at 7.00pm on 20th March 2011. Separate Seating for Ladies

4. Lecture at Amal International School, “Being the Best you can be – From a Student’s Perspective” on Monday 21st Monday at 11.00 a.m. for student and teachers.

Radioactive Releases in Japan Could Last Months, Experts Say
As the scale of Japan’s nuclear crisis begins to come to light, experts in Japan and the United States say the country is now facing a cascade of accumulating problems that suggest that radioactive releases of steam from the crippled plants could go on for weeks or even months.
The emergency flooding of two stricken reactors with seawater and the resulting steam releases are a desperate step intended to avoid a much bigger problem: a full meltdown of the nuclear cores in two reactors at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station. On Monday, an explosion blew the roof off the second reactor, not damaging the core, officials said, but presumably leaking more radiation.

Tourism demand increases for Maldives and Mauritius
Tourism is returning to pre-recession strengths in the Maldives and Mauritius, with both islands seeing an upswing in demand, according to a new study. STR Global has released data stating demand, based on occupied rooms, in the Maldives increased in 2010 by 17 per cent and in Mauritius by 8.6 per cent from the year before. The study showed demand last year was down by 0.7 per cent in the Maldives, and by four per cent in Mauritius compared to 2008 data. However, the study indicated the increase in demand have not yet impacted average daily rates (ADR) in the island destinations. STR’s data showed Europeans represented the largest source of tourism for both nations in 2010, representing 63.5 per cent composition and 64.8 per cent of the Maldives and Mauritius respectively.

                 13 March 2011 | Sunday                 

Gov’t only bringing Brits to high positions is questionable- Gasim
Leader of Jumhooree Party, Gasim Ibrahim has said that it is questionable that only British people are brought to the country by the government for high ranking positions of the government. Gasim said that the British people are appointed for high ranking posts of IGMH, Bank of Maldives, Maldives Tourism Promotion Board. Mamigili MP Gasim Ibrahim said that this unusual loyalty to Britain is of concern and that it is dubious.

Protests infront of Muleeage were held to sweep 800m US$ scandal under the rug- Abdullah Abdurraheem MP
Maafannu Hulhangu MP and parliamentary group member of the main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), Abdullah Abdurraheem has said that the faction of DRP founding leader Dictator Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, after being silent on the issues regarding the resolution dispute between Thulusdhoo and Funadhoo, tried to stage protests in front of President’s Official House Muleeage when the Supreme Court ruled in agreement with DRP’s position in the issue, to sweep Gayoom’s alleged involvement in the international money laundering racket worth up to US$800 million under the rug.

Pres. propose to form official body of Indian Ocean island countries
As part of his visit to Mauritius, President Mohamed Nasheed has yesterday held official talks with Prime Minister of Mauritius Dr Navinchandra Ramgoolam. During the wide-ranging discussions between both governments on the relations between two countries and matters of mutual interest, the President proposed to form an official body of Indian Ocean island countries, such as the SAARC in the South Asia, to collectively promote development cooperation and common interests at the world stage.

No one has enquired for info on oil rates-GMR
CEO of GMR Infrastructure, Andrew A. Harrison has said that no one has enquired or requested for the information oil rates at GMR operated Male’ International Airport. CEO Andrew said that despite there have been talks by some individuals regarding the raise of the price of jet fuel at GMR operated Male’ International Airport at Hulhule’ going around the media, there have been no enquiries made by any individuals for information on the reason why the oil price has been raised.

Everyone involved in vote rigging should receive harshest punishment in the Law – Pres.
President Mohamed Nasheed has called for harshest punishment prescribed in the law be given to everyone who was found to have involved in electoral fraud and improper vote counting to increase the number of votes for their favoured candidate. The President´s comments come after over forty cases of alleged electoral fraud including improper vote counting during recent local council elections have been filed at courts and over thirty of them were accepted by courts.

Maldives Provides Japan Earthquake and Tsunami Disaster Assistance
The Maldives is to provide emergency disaster supplies to Japan, following the devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit the north-east of the country on Friday. The Maldives has offered Japan in-kind assistance of 1,800 cases of canned Maldivian tuna, containing a total of 86,400 cans, to help feed a town affected by the disaster.

Mauritius awards highest order to Pres.
President of Mauritius Sir Anerood Jugnauth has awarded the highest distinct order of merit in Mauritius, Grand Commander of the Order of the Star and the Key of the Indian Ocean (GCSK), to President Mohamed Nasheed. President Nasheed was conferred GCSK at the luncheon hosted by President Anerood in his honour yesterday. Among the few foreign dignitaries who has been conferred the award are Former President of South Africa Nelson Mandela, and Former President of Guyana Cheddi Jagan. As part of his visit to Mauritius, President Nasheed yesterday visited Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, and laid a wreath at the Memorial of Former Prime Minister of Mauritius, Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam, who is also considered by Mauritians as the Father of the Nation.

Japanese Scramble to Avert Meltdowns as Nuclear Crisis Deepens After Quake
Japanese officials struggled on Sunday to contain a widening nuclear crisis in the aftermath of a devastating earthquake and tsunami, saying they presumed that partial meltdowns had occurred at two crippled reactors and that they were facing serious cooling problems at three more.

Japan to deploy 100,000 troops on quake aid
Japan will double to 100,000 the number of troops on rescue and relief missions after a massive earthquake and tsunami hit the northeast coast, the government said Sunday. Defence Minister Toshimi Kitazawa told a meeting of his ministry's emergency headquarters that he had received the order from Prime Minister Naoto Kan, a government official told AFP on condition of anonymity.

US experts fear 'Chernobyl-like' crisis for Japan
US nuclear experts warned Saturday that pumping sea water to cool a quake-hit Japanese nuclear reactor was an "act of desperation" that may foreshadow a Chernobyl-like disaster.

Japan doubles troops for quake help, world offers aid
Japan on Sunday committed 100,000 troops to help earthquake and tsunami survivors as the world rallied behind the disaster-stricken nation and a US aircraft carrier arrived off the shattered coast.

Meltdowns may have occurred in two reactors: Japan govt
Japan's top government spokesman Yukio Edano said Sunday that radioactive meltdowns may have occurred in two reactors of the quake-hit Fukushima nuclear plant. Asked in a press conference whether meltdowns had occurred, Edano said "we are acting on the assumption that there is a high possibility that one has occurred" in the plant's number-one reactor. "As for the number-three reactor, we are acting on the assumption that it is possible," he said.

                 12 March 2011 | Saturday                 

Burma implicated in major oil fraud
An investigation in the Maldives has implicated the Burmese military and a number of private companies in an $US800 million money-laundering scam involving the sale of Maldivian cut-price oil. The allegations were made after the Maldivian government in March last year hired a UK-based auditing firm called Grant Thornton to investigate the corruptive practices of former president and autocrat Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who left office in 2008. The audit unearthed fudged accounts that showed that the unit prices of barrels of oil differed in invoices for different accounts, with one irregularity amounting to over $US5 million. A Maldivian government official who asked to remain anonymous told DVB that the total scale of the fraud was more than half the country’s GDP.

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IMF Executive Board Concludes 2010 Article IV Consultation with Maldives
Expansionary fiscal policies in Maldives after the 2004 tsunami led to severe fiscal and external imbalances, leaving the economy vulnerable. The situation deteriorated markedly in 2008–09, as the decline in tourism which followed the global economic crisis hit the Maldivian economy hard, aggravated the imbalances, and pushed the country into recession. In response, the authorities adopted an ambitious adjustment program supported by IMF financing. The program focused on a strong fiscal adjustment, monetary tightening and a strengthening of the financial sector. After contracting by 2¼ percent in 2009, the economy rebounded strongly in 2010, on the back of a sharp recovery in tourism inflows. Real GDP growth is estimated at 4¾ percent in 2010. Inflation continues to reflect mainly international commodity price movements, increasing since mid-2009 on a year-on-year basis, and is expected to average 5 percent in 2010. The current account deficit is projected to have widened to about 32¼ percent of GDP in 2010, as the economic recovery and higher commodity prices have pushed up imports, offsetting the tourism rebound.

Maldives Police Services calls not to cause disunity and civil commotion
Maldives Police Service has called the people not to cause disunity and civil commotion by way of some Councilors who took their posts at local councils from the first to be elected under the Decentralization Act. In a press statement released yesterday, Maldives Police Services said that none of the people will be given the opportunity to cause strife and discord between the people. Maldives Police Services also called all parties involved to peacefully resolve the issue of the differences regarding Shaviani Atoll Council and Kaafu Atoll Council Secretariats. The Press release also said that the Police will disregard any politically motivated calls of some politicians. The Police assured the people that they will always work to uphold the law and in the service of the people.

Media can reveal information on AG reports only once- Lawyer Waheed
Mohamed Waheed, Lawyer of the former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has said that the media can only reveal any information based on the reports of the Auditor General (AG) only once. In yesterday’s hearing of the trial Gayoom’s case against Maidhu Daily’s Managing Editor, Abdul Latheef, for publishing a news article based on a report by New York Times report on the corruption activities of the previous regime as was mentioned in the reports of Maldivian Auditor General, Gayoom’s lawyer Waheed earlier said that the media cannot ever use the information revealed on the reports of AG unless the reports are ruled as authentic and reliable in a court of law.

Dhiyana Saeed as the new SAARC Secretary General
Fathimath Dhiyana Saeed has assumed her duties as the tenth Secretary General of SAARC yesterday. She has entered into history as the first lady Secretary General of SAARC. Her nomination by the Government of Maldives for the top post in SAARC Secretariat was endorsed by the recently held SAARC Council of Ministers Meeting in Thimphu, Bhutan on 8 February 2011.

Ministry of Economic Development introduces SME Loan Scheme
The Ministry of Economic Development yesterday launched a loan scheme for Small and Medium Enterprises. The Ministry informed that this loan scheme is targeted for small and medium enterprises operating in the fisheries, tourism and the arts and crafts sector. From the fisheries sector, priority will be given to enterprises focusing on fish processing and increasing the quality of processed fish. Similarly, guest house operations will be favoured from the tourism sector, and handicrafts, performance arts, and documentaries depicting Maldivian culture and tradition will also be preferred during the selection process.

New SAARC secy gen assumes office
Newly appointed Secretary General of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), Fathimah Dhiyana Saheed assumed office on Tuesday. The first woman Secretary General of SAARC has been a Member of Parliament of the Republic of Maldives and also the Attorney General. Prior to this, she was the special envoy for South Asia under the Foreign Ministry of the Maldives. She was appointed the 10th Secretary General of SAARC by the Foreign Minister-level meeting of SAARC held in Thimphu of Bhutan in February.

Hi Traveller Introduces Angsana Ihuru Villas In Maldives
Hi Traveller, dedicated to help travellers find suitable resorts for themselves, has inducted high end Angsana Ihuru villas into its band of properties in Maldives. It is a group of 45 villas spread across the island. All villas are furnished with thatched roofs, private gardens and beautiful interiors. Announcing the induction of Angsana Ihuru in the cluster of vacation rentals, the Press Executive of the organization commented, “We always try our best to ensure that our customers get the best choice of vacation rentals with us. We keep on adding new accommodations to our database enabling our users to select a resort of their choice.”

                 1 March 2011 | Tuesday                 

Seven Danes taken hostage in Indian Ocean
Family with three children kidnapped by Somali pirates
A Danish family on a sailing trip around the world were abducted last week by Somali pirates, according to the Foreign Ministry. Two parents, along with their three children - aged 13, 15 and 17 - and two deckhands were reportedly kidnapped while en route from the Maldives to the Red Sea last Thursday. In mid-February the family’s 43-foot long yacht ING left the Maldives. Last Tuesday, the 17-year-old son wrote on the family’s blog that they were halfway between the Maldives and the Arabian Sea. He also wrote that everything was as normal and that they had not been attacked by pirates.

Island Courts issues opposing court orders regarding Sh Atoll Council Office
Funadhoo Magistrate Court and Milandhoo Magistrate Court issues opposing court orders regarding the issue of the change in Council resolutions to change the capital of Shaviyani Atoll Council from Milandhoo to Funadhoo. Funadhoo Magistrate Court yesterday issued a court order to run the secretariat of Shaviyani Atoll Council while Milandhoo Magistrate Court issued a court order to run the secretariat in Milandhoo. Since 29 October, 2009 the government changed the capital of Shaviyani Atoll to Milandhoo. However, following the newly elected councilors, from the local council elections held in the country in order to consolidate local governance as envisaged by the Constitution and the Decentralization Act, took their oath of office; Shaviyani Atoll Council changed their capital from Milandhoo to Funadhoo. Funadhoo Magistrate Court issued a court order to Maldives Police Service not to hinder the work of the secretariat of Shaviyani Atoll Council run in Funadhoo. Meanwhile, Milandhoo Magistrate Court issued a court order to change the Secretariat of Shaviyani Atoll Council run in Funadhoo to Milandhoo.

ADB Executive Director Calls on the Pres.
President Mohamed Nasheed has met with Executive Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Siraj Shamsuddin today. Discussions at the meeting held at the President’s Office this afternoon, centered on the ADB funded development programmes in the Maldives, as well as increasing ADB’s assistance to the Maldives. At the meeting, the President thanked the ADB for its long standing relationship and continued assistance to the Maldives, describing ADB as an important development partner of the Maldives. He underscored the importance of ADB assistance to strengthen the newly introduced tourism goods and services taxation system, and ease the difficulties in conducting foreign currency transactions. The President noted water, sewerage and road construction as the government’s priority development projects, and discussed with the Executive Director on the possibility of extending ADB support for these projects. He also requested a greater participation from ADB in the upcoming SAARC Summit to be held in the Maldives. Applauding the government’s economic and fiscal policy, ADB Executive Director Shamsuddin assured the President of continued ADB assistance to the Maldives.

UNDP Projects signed to Strengthen Local Democracy and Governance
A US $ 438,000 project was signed today between the United Nations Development Programme and the Ministry of Home Affairs on Strengthening Local Democracy and Governance in the Maldives, supported by UNDP’s Democratic Governance Thematic Trust Fund (DGTTF). The main objective of the project is to support the Government of the Maldives to implement the programme for decentralised governance.

ICM organize a ‘Blood Donation Camp’
India Club Maldives (ICM) has organized a ‘Blood Donation Camp’ on Feb 25, 2011 (Friday) at the National Thalassemia Centre (NTC), in Male’. Some 42.2 liters of blood was collected from 100 voluntary donors of different nationalities including Indians, Maldivians, Sri Lankans, Bangladeshis, Nepali, Palestinian donated blood. The club noted that this was its fifth initiative which has received an overwhelming support and appreciation from all sections of the public.

ADB Executive Director Calls on the President
President Mohamed Nasheed has met with Executive Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), Siraj Shamsuddin today. Discussions at the meeting held at the President’s Office this afternoon, centered on the ADB funded development programmes in the Maldives, as well as increasing ADB’s assistance to the Maldives. At the meeting, the President thanked the ADB for its long standing relationship and continued assistance to the Maldives, describing ADB as an important development partner of the Maldives. He underscored the importance of ADB assistance to strengthen the newly introduced tourism goods and services taxation system, and ease the difficulties in conducting foreign currency transactions. The President noted water, sewerage and road construction as the government’s priority development projects, and discussed with the Executive Director on the possibility of extending ADB support for these projects. He also requested a greater participation from ADB in the upcoming SAARC Summit to be held in the Maldives. Applauding the government’s economic and fiscal policy, ADB Executive Director Shamsuddin assured the President of continued ADB assistance to the Maldives.

Maldives Appoint Yoon Hyung-ju Honorary Consul
Singer Yoon Hyung-ju has become the honorary consul of Maldives in Korea. Visiting the islands at the invitation of the government, from Feb. 21 to 23, Yoon (64) was asked by Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed to take up the post. "I would like to let people in Korea and abroad know about the environmental crisis the beautiful island nation faces and contribute to cultural exchanges between Korea and Maldives," Yoon said on return to Korea on Friday. The Maldives are threatened by rising sea levels due to climate change.

Mark Hehir Joins One&Only Reethi Rah as GM
Mark Hehir has been appointed as General Manager of the One&Only Reethi Rah in the Maldives. He will be based in the Maldives and will report directly to Mr. Leibman, President/Managing Director of Kerzner International. An accomplished hotel executive in the region, Hehir was most recently the General Manager of the Anantara Phuket Villas in Thailand. Mark originally joined Anantara as General Manager at Seminyak Resort and Spa in Bali in 2007. He then moved on to Anantara’s Si Kao Resort and Spa where he oversaw the rebranding and opening of the resort.

Taj on Swan may be left as is
The partially built mansion in Peppermint Grove owned by Indian entrepreneurs Pankaj and Radhika Oswal may remain unfinished for decades. Speaking from the Maldives while on holiday, the couple said they would sell the property if offered $40 million, but would otherwise keep it in the hope of returning to live in Perth one day. The revelation that the so-called Taj-Mahal-on-the-Swan may be completed is sure to upset neighbours, who have complained that the Indian-inspired design was too extravagant. Many had hoped a new owner would demolish it. The home would have become the most expensive in Australia once finished, at $70 million. Construction stopped in December when the family moved to India at the same time receivers were appointed to Burrup Fertilisers. Mr Oswal said the property could be left as a construction site for his two daughters, Vasundhara and Riddhi, to eventually complete. "Yes, we might complete it, or we might just leave it as is right now, and decide, let the children complete it when they grow up," Mr Oswal said

Pay for your Singapore Airlines tickets via PayPal
There’s now another way to pay for those air tickets to the Maldives when you buy them over the Singapore Airlines website. Besides credit cards, the airline now accepts payment via the popular PayPal service as well, as it rolls out an alternative payment service to customers in the United States and six Asia-Pacific markets in Australia, Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Japan. Eventually, users from 17 countries will be able to buy tickets using PayPal, in a tie-up today that is said to be the biggest between PayPal and an Asian carrier to date.

USS Higgins Encourages Partnership during Maldives Port Visit
The guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins (DDG 76) visited Maldives, Feb. 25-26 and conducted Maritime Domain Awareness training with the Maldives Coast Guard. The Maldives islands in the Indian Ocean are located in a vast exclusive economic zone, which is remote and prone to pirates, illegal trafficking and illegal fishing. Such bilateral trainings enhance maritime security and stability. On top of the training, Higgins hosted 47 women serving in various branches of Maldivian government and law enforcement on board the ship. More than 25 female crew members from Higgins volunteered to take part in the open discussion, lunch, and to lead tours of the ship.