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15 May 2011 | Sunday

Dictator Maumoon Illegally Captures DRP
Tomorrow he might Declare himself as a WOMAN
Zionist-DRP is in reality a reform movement to propagate the true DRP ideology
-Zionist-DRP is the real DRP: Dictator Gayoom
Former President of Maldives and Founding Leader of the main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), Dictator Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom has said that the Z-DRP is in reality a reform movement to propagate the true DRP ideology. Upon his return to Maldives, speaking to the media at Male’ International Airport, Gayyoom said that there is thought on registering a new political party as Z-DRP.

Dictator Gayoom asked Indian intervention fearing his arrest on his return- Zuhair
President’s Office Press Secretary, Mohamed Zuhair has said that the Former President Dictator Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom has requested the Indian government’s intervention fearing his arrest by the Maldivian government upon his return. Zuhair said that the government of Maldives will give the former President Dictator Gayyoom security even without his request to the Indian Government to intervene with Maldives on his behalf.

Comissioner of Elections Declares That there is no Z-DRP
Truth is that there is no such party as Z-DRP: Fuwad
-Real DRP is Z-DRP: Dictator Gayyoom
-Gayyoom’s comment that Z-DRP is the real DRP is humorous: Rozaina
President of the Elections Commission, Fuwad Thaufeeg has said that there is no such party registered as Z-DRP. He said that the main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) has a legal status since the party is registered in the Elections Commission’s political party registry.

Mrf21 Billion a More Accurate Forecast of Real GDP for This Year – President
President Mohamed Nasheed has said that Mrf21 billion, at 2003 prices, was a more accurate estimation of real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) that Mrf11.3 billion previously estimated, at 1995 prices, for this year.

Government to prioritize job creation in the second half of the term in office
Speaking on the government policies in the Community Cabinet meeting held in Addu City Thursday, President Mohamed Nasheed has announced that the government would prioritise increasing employment opportunities in the later half of his term in office.

Maldives at a crossroads
Street protests, unruly mob violence, nightly raids and destructive slogans against the ruling party have put the first democratic government of Maldives in a vulnerable position. Dollar shortage for over a year resulted in a flourishing black market and economic instability. Recently, the government acknowledged that the local currency, Ruyffia was overvalued and a decision was taken by President Nasheed to devalue it. This was backed by IMF and the central bank. But, for a country almost totally reliant on imports for fuel and consumer goods, the costs of living for average Maldivians has exacerbated to almost 20%. It would have been prudent to devalue the currency incrementally over the last two years. But the current move was imperative to save the country from further disasters.

The Magic of the Maldives
Get captivated by natural beauty on this Indian Ocean island
Your first order of business as you arrive in the Maldives is to switch off anything remotely techy. Because on this cluster of paradise islands, the only thing that will require your undivided attention is the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you. Considered one of the world’s most luxurious and most sought after travel destinations, the Maldives has fast become an ‘it’ destination for high flying honeymooners and budget-free beach lovers. Offering everything you’d want from a sun-soaked holiday, and then some, the Maldives’ miles of pristine coastline, untouched coral reefs and lush greenery make it unlike anywhere else in the world.

14 May 2011 | Saturday

No person with a right mind will decide to take tax when the economy is collapsing- Gasim
Leader of the opposition Jumhooree Party (JP) and Maamigili MP, Gasim Ibrahim has said that no person with a right mind will decide to take tax from the people when the economy of the country is at stake and is collapsing. JP Leader, Gasim said this in view of the President’s decision to take a general tax from small to large enterprises in the country.

Thasmeen calls for the resignation of the members who reject DRP charter
Leader of the main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), Ahmed Thasmeen Ali has called for the resignation of all DRP MPs who reject the DRP charter from the party. In an interview to Miadhu Daily, DRP Leader Thasmeen said that the people elected the DRP candidates for the Peoples’ Majlis for them to accept the DRP charter and work in line with it.
“However, when these MPs disregard the charter and obey only that which the DRP founding leader Gayyoom says, then the rights of the people who voted for them are being violated. Therefore, I call on these members who reject our charter to resign from our party. I call them to run in the elections again,” Thasmeen said.

Gov’t to prioritize job creation in the second half of the term in office
Speaking on the government policies in the Community Cabinet meeting held in Addu City today, President Mohamed Nasheed has announced that the government would prioritise increasing employment opportunities in the later half of his term in office. Discussions at the first ever Community Cabinet meeting were focused on four main areas: social sector, infrastructure, good governance and economic development. Cabinet ministers made presentations on the four broad areas discussed yesterday.

First Community Cabinet Meeting Gets Underway in Addu City
The first ever Community Cabinet meeting has begun at Hithadhoo Muhibbuddeen School in Addu City. President Mohamed Nasheed, in his opening remarks, highlighted the areas of focus at the meeting. The Cabinet earlier decided to focus on four areas – economic development, infrastructure, social development and good governance – at the meeting. After each presentation, the President and Cabinet ministers will respond to questions from the general public.

President Inspects the Progress of SAARC Convention Center
President Mohamed Nasheed has visited to view to progress of Convention Centre being built in Addu City for the SAARC Summit to be held in the Maldives later this year. The President is visiting Addu City to attend the first ever Community Cabinet meeting to be held in Addu City later Thursday. He arrived in Addu City yesterday afternoon. During his visit to the Convention Centre site Thursday, he sought the details of the progress of the project from the contractors and the relevant government authorities. The President laid the foundation stone of the Centre on 4 January this year. Earlier, on Wednesday, the President also examined the progress of the on-going road construction project in Hithadhoo and other parts of Addu City in time for the SAARC Summit in November. He met with all the government and private organizations involved in the road construction project after visiting the site and he was updated on the progress of the project. In addition, the President Thursday met with a delegation from Fuahmulah visiting Addu City.

China becomes Maldives' largest source of tourists- Dr. Zulfa
The Maldives received 120,000 Chinese tourists in 2010, representing an increase of 96 percent from a year earlier and marking that China has become its largest source country of foreign tourists for the first time, Dr. Mariyam Zulfa, Maldives' minister of Tourism Arts and Culture, said in an interview with Xinhua News Agency on May 11.

Top Chinese legislator to visit Maldives
Top Chinese legislator Wu Bangguo will visit Namibia, Angola, South Africa and Maldives from May 18 to 31, the National People's Congress (NPC) said on Thursday, reported Xinhua News Agency. Wu, chairman of the NPC Standing Committee, will be the guest of Speaker of the Namibian National Assembly Theo-Ben Gurirab, Speaker of the Angolan National Assembly Antonio Paulo Kassoma, Speaker of South African National Assembly Max Sisulu, and Speaker of the Maldivian People's Majlis Abdulla Shahid. Wu Bangguo is a high-ranking politician in the People's Republic of China. He is currently Chairman and Party secretary of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, a position that makes him China's chief legislator. He is also ranked second in official rankings of state and party leaders according to his qualifications in the Party. A native of Anhui, Wu is an electric engineer by profession, and rose to national fame through regional work as the party chief of Shanghai and as Vice-Premier of the State Council.

President welcomes MMA’s efforts to control the use of currencies other than Rufiyaa in Business Transactions
President Mohamed Nasheed has welcomed the Maldives Monetary Authority’s (MMA) attempt to control the use of currencies other than Rufiyaa in conducting business in the Maldives. Reiterating the Article 5 of Monetary Regulation, the central bank, MMA, has announced the prohibition of the use a currency other than Maldivian Rufiyaa for the payment of any merchandise of business conducted in the Maldives, remuneration for work or services, fee, rent or the like. Earlier this week, on 8 May, meeting Governor of MMA Fazeel Najeeb, the President stressed that all business transactions in the Maldives should be conducted using Rufiyaa, as stipulated in the regulation. He requested the Governor to take special measures to enforce the regulation and control the use of other currencies in conducting business transactions in the Maldives. The President especially commended the MMA’s announcement following his request to the Governor and extended his good wishes for the success of MMA’s efforts in this regard.

Minister Naseem delivers a statement at the Fourth United Nations Conference of the LDCs
Minister of Foreign Affairs Ahmed Naseem said based on the Maldivian experience of graduating from the LDC list, it was the economic growth, strength of democratic institutions, economic vulnerability and LDC ownership in the development of initiatives to resolve local challenges that shaped the choices to which an LDC may avail itself and the parameters in which it functions.

For the first time in decades our diplomacy is being extended not reduced- British Foreign Secretary
Yesterday, the Foreign Secretary announced to Parliament a new strategic shift for the FCO’s overseas network that will extend the FCO’s global reach and strengthen its influence with the 21st century’s rising powers.

Disappearing world: 100 places under threat from climate change
A new book highlights 100 areas of the planet that could vanish because of global warming – and encourages us to visit them before they do. Leo Hickman reviews the book – and is mesmerised by some of the place

Maldives in safe Argentine hands
17-0 is a scoreline one rarely associates with a football game, let alone a FIFA World Cup™ qualifier. However, such a defeat - a then-record FIFA World Cup scoreline - was inflicted uponMaldives by Iran in a qualifying match for France 1998. To compound the agony, the south-Asian islanders went on to concede another nine unanswered goals in the return leg. While Maldives would undoubtedly prefer to forget that part of their history, it does provide an opportunity for the Red Snappers to reflect on how much progression they have made in recent years. Indeed, such improvement was demonstrated by the draw for Asia’s first and second round qualifying matches for the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™, which ranked Maldives 26 of the AFC’s 46 Member Associations.

Maldives tourism benefits from Sri Lanka’s boom
The expanding tourism industry of neighbouring Sri Lanka benefits the Maldives, which attract more tourist than ever. Maldives welcome more for Vacation or Honeymoon.

Maldivian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Naseem said that Sri Lanka’s booming tourism industry will compliment Maldives’ aim to increase tourist arrivals by over a million this year. “It’s widely perceived that the countries compete in tourism. However in the reality we can compliment each other in the issue. Sri Lanka doing well in tourism means for Maldives also wellfare in tourism, and it’s mutual benefit,” Naseem stated. He said, Sri Lanka has become a hot spot for tourism since the war there has ended. “The Eastern coast of Sri Lanka is the most beautiful beach coast in the country and will certainly attract more tourists. So is my countries islands and beaches.” Naseem said that Maldives is looking forward at this prospect and are expecting the tourist arrival numbers to exceed one million this year.

Quanzhou girl Lihong CHEN dreams to travel to the Maldives
Lihong, who was born in Quanzhou, a prefecture-level city in Fujian, stands at 172cm, and was selected on the list of recommended models by China Elite Model Promotion Base. Born as a Cancer girl, Lihong is passionate about reading and writing. Her favorite color is green. Just like most other girls, Lihong likes every beautiful thing. She likes reading “Ruili” (瑞丽) and "Vivi” (昕薇). Living with a motto of “Be the best of whatever you are”, Lihong’s dream is to travel to the Maldives.

12 May 2011 | Thursday

Pres. welcomes the measures taken by MMA to stabilize the economy
President Mohamed Nasheed has welcomed the measures taken by Maldives Monetary Authority to stabilize the economy by stipulating that all businesses transactions are to be done in Maldivian Ruffiya. In his meeting with MMA Governor Fazeel Najeeb, the President requested him to stipulate that all business transactions are to be done in Maldivian Ruffiya. President Nasheed noted and expressed his gratitude for the authority for accepting this request and commencing the work so promptly to take these measures.

Using the party logo and adding a letter to the name is a crime- Thasmeen
Leader of the main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party, Thasmeen Ali has said that it is a crime to misuse the logo of DRP and to change the name of the party by adding a letter to the name. DRP Leader Ahmed Thasmeen Ali that everyone is given the opportunity to form Political Parties. However, he said that DRP has a charter which is obliged upon all members to follow. He said that it is against the charter of DRP to use its logo and name against the leadership of the party and the council of the party.

Zionist-DRP soon to announce their Presidential candidate
Former President of Maldives, Dictator Maumoon Abdul Gayyoom’s faction of the main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), who now work under the name ‘Zionist-DRP’ has revealed that the faction will soon announce their Presidential candidate for the 2013 Presidential election.

Health Ministry to take against clinics for increasing consultation fee
Ministry of Health has announced to take necessary actions against clinics for increasing consultation fees and other charges without the authorization of the Ministry. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Minister of Health Aminath Jameel said that some clinics increased their consultation fees with the claims of the increase in the US Dollar exchange rate. She said that these clinics increased their charges without the authorization of the Ministry. Minister Aminath Jameel noted that some clinics discussed with the Ministry to increase their charges but however they implemented it without the authorization of the Ministry. She said that necessary steps will be taken against these clinics.

President ratifies Maldives Customs Bill
President Mohamed Nasheed has yesterday ratified Maldives Customs Bill passed by the People’s Majlis on 25 April. Following the ratification, Maldives Customs Act has been published in the Government Gazette.

President appoints Minister of Finance as the Minister in charge of Customs Service
Following the ratification of the Maldives Customs Act, President Mohamed Nasheed has appointed Minister of Finance and Treasury Ahmed Inaz as the Cabinet minister in charge of the Maldives Customs Services. In accordance with the Maldives Customs Act, powers and responsibilities of the Minister include deciding official ports of the country, Customs areas and Customs service outlets as well as finalizing policies regarding the services of Maldives Customs Service. The Minister in charge of Customs is also responsible for the maintaining and upgrading Customs services, formulating regulations, procedures and systems to enhance the Customs’ accountability, issuing directives and taking appropriate action regarding these matters. The Minister is answerable to the President and the People’s Majlis on the matters related the Maldives Customs Service.

President appoints Aswan as Commissioner General of Customs
President Mohamed Nasheed has appointed Mr Mohamed Aswan as the Commissioner General of Customs as per the Maldives Customs Act the President ratified yesterday. The President presented the Letter of Appointment as the Commissioner General to Mr Aswan at a ceremony held at the President’s Office yesterday morning.

President. ratifies National Language (Priority) Bill
President Mohamed Nasheed has yesterday ratified the National Language (Priority) Bill passed by the People’s Majlis on April 25. National Language (Priority) Act has been published in the Government Gazette yesterday following the ratification. The National Language (Priority) Act aims to protect, develop, preserve and promote the use of the national language, Dhivehi, as declared in the Article 11 of the Constitution. The Act stipulates that all state communications and correspondences should be in Dhivehi while not restricting the use of other languages in communicating with people who do not speak Dhivehi. The Act also states that the President should establish a Dhivehi Language Academy and appoint members to the Academy within 90 days of the commencement of the Act.

Best Communication company in Maldives ,
Dhiraagu enables checking of daily USD Exchange Rate via SMS
Dhiraagu enables checking of USD exchange rate via SMS to its customers. With the introduction of this service Dhiraagu customers can enjoy the convenience of checking the USD exchange rate by sending a text message from anywhere, at any time. Dhiraagu Marketing Communications & PR Manager, Mohamed Mirshan Hassan highlighted that SMS is one of the most popular mediums of communication and this service is a hassle-free way to check the daily exchange rates.

Did Prince William choose Maldives as his honeymoon destination?
Some websites made reports that Prince William and Princess Kate Middleton had considered Maldives for their honeymoon destination. Although some envious websites have used defamatory remarks on Maldives as being the “sinking nation”, if the rumours are true: if Prince William and Kate Middleton really chose Maldives for their honeymoon, it will be a good achievement for the country.

Above water Energy and enthusiasm
300,000 plus Maldivians do not stop surprising me. Cuddled in 1000 plus islands in the bottle green Indian Ocean and blue sky Maldives was one of the first countries to prepare its plan to phase out of CFCs way back in year 1993. That was within 2 years of the establishment of the Multilateral Fund for the Montreal Protocol on substances that deplete the Ozone Layer.

Message from Dr Samlee Plianbangchang
Regional Director, WHO South-East Asia Region, on the occasion of the Launch of the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011–2020 11 May 2011

China becomes Maldives' largest source of tourists
The Maldives received 120,000 Chinese tourists in 2010, representing an increase of 96 percent from a year earlier and marking that China has become its largest source country of foreign tourists for the first time, Mariyam Zulfa, Maldives' minister of Tourism Arts and Culture, said in an interview with Xinhua News Agency on May 11. The Maldives is an island country in the Indian Ocean and is a leisure resort that used to receive mostly Western tourists, but it has received a fast-growing number of Chinese tourists over recent years.

WC To Create New Fibre Optic Cable System In Maldives
Dhiraagu, Cable & Wireless Communications' (CWC) business in the Maldives, has commissioned a new submarine fibre optic cable network system which will run north to south across the 90,000 square kilometre country. The Dhiraagu Domestic Submarine Cable Network (DDSCN) will provide high speed internet access across the country's 200 inhabited islands, increasing the number of households which can access broadband. It will also help Dhiraagu to provide social telecom services (telecoms enabled public services) like e-health, telemedicine and e-government services. The 1,017 km length fibre optic submarine cable will be installed by the NEC Corporation. It is expected to be operational by mid-2012. Tony Rice, the Chief Executive of Cable & Wireless Communications, commented: "Dhiraagu is investing to enable consumers in all islands of the Maldives to enjoy high speed internet and modern telecommunication facilities. This, in turn, will provide opportunities for the development of the Maldives economy and will enable more public services to be provided online."

8 May 2011 | Saturday

“Youth” and the government agrees to discuss economic issues
Youth protestors, who held protests to voice out the growing concerns and worries among the population over the escalating price of commodities and services, have agreed to discuss the issues with the government today.

US Dollar sold to banks have increased from US$4m20 million after floating rates introduced – President
In Friday’s radio address, President Mohamed Nasheed noted that the amount of US Dollar sold to banks have increased from US$4 million, before floating the Rufiyaa, to US$16 million in the first week and to over US$20 million in the next few weeks.

Economic reforms cannot be left off for the obstructions of a few people- Pres.
President Mohamed Nasheed has said that economic reforms cannot be left off because of the obstructions and hindrances by a few people. Speaking at the rally of Maldivian Democratic Party (DRP) held at the Tsunami Monument area, President Nasheed said that the economic reform measures being taken by the government is necessary for the long term economic stability of the country.

Health budget may go up by 2%
India plans to increase its allocation for health to 2%-3% of its GDP over the next five years.
Public spending on health was 0•94% of the gross domestic product (GDP) in 2004–05, which was among the lowest in the world. Private expenditure on health in India is about 78% as compared to 14% in the Maldives, Bhutan (29%),Sri Lanka (53%), Thailand (31%) and China (61%). Union health minister Ghulam Nabi Azad on Saturday owned up to the growing health burden. He said, "Years of prolonged under funding of the public health system and dependence on the private sector has pushed the cost of healthcare, and has also affected access. There is more than Rs 3,000 expenditure in government hospitals in rural areas during every hospitalization, which is met out of pocket. The out-of-pocket expenditure in the urban areas and in private hospitals is two to three times higher."

Pirates seize Chinese-crewed cargo ship: Xinhua
Pirates have seized a Panama-registered bulk cargo ship with 24 Chinese sailors on board in the Arabian Sea, state media reported. The hijackers attacked the vessel, Full City, around 500 miles (800 kilometres) off the Indian city of Mumbai, the official Xinhua news agency said, citing the China Sea Rescue Centre. Two ships from the Chinese navy that were patrolling in the Gulf of Aden have been sent to rescue the cargo vessel. Heavily armed pirates using speedboats operate in and around the Gulf of Aden where they prey on ships, sometimes holding vessels for weeks before releasing them for large ransoms paid by governments or shipowners.

New study reveals when livestock can transmit foot-and-mouth disease
A new study of foot-and-mouth disease shows that cattle afflicted with the virus are only infectious for a brief window of time-about half as long as previously thought. This finding suggests that the controversial control measures used to halt the disease's spread, such as killing large numbers of livestock, could be reduced.

Arctic warming could raise oceans 5 feet
Arctic warming, occurring twice as fast as the global average, could raise sea levels more than 5 feet in 90 years, an official multinational study forecast. The Arctic Monitoring and Assessment Program forecast -- for the international Arctic Council of eight arctic rim countries, including the United States -- predicted sea levels would rise 2.75 times more than the top figure of the landmark 2007 U.N. Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which forecast of 7 to 23 inches by the end of the century.

6 May 2011 | Friday

Freedom of assembly will always be respected; violence and rioting will not – Foreign Minister
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Naseem, yesterday reaffirmed the Government's steadfast and uncompromising commitment to the right to peaceful assembly; but drew a clear distinction between the peaceful and responsible exercise of that right and the political-motivated violence, rioting and destruction of property currently being witnessed in Male.

Right to assembly is not the only right given by the constitution- Alhan
The newly elected Vice President of the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), Alhan Fahmy has said that the right to assembly is not the only right given by the constitution. In an interview given to the local TV Channel, DhiTV, MDP Vice President Alhan Fahmy said that the constitution also gives the people the right to live independently and move independently. “When these people use the right to assembly how many rights of the public are violated? How many children are deprived of their right to sleep? How many children are psychologically affected? How many acts of violence and crime are committed in these protests? Do you not know that it is a constitutional obligation upon the authority to clear the society from such violence and crimes?,” Alhan queried the opposition. In light of the protests held every night by the opposition over the soaring prices of commodities and services, Alhan said that the opposition protestors incite riot and disrupt business. He said that the opposition has a hidden agenda. Alhan reiterated that the opposition, namely the Z-DRP intends to incite mass action to discredit and overthrow the first democratically elected Government.

President meets Hinnavaru Island Council
President Mohamed Nasheed has visited Lhaviyani Atoll Hinnavaru and met Hinnavaru Island Council yesterday. During the meeting with the island council, the President and Hinnavaru discussed improving the quality and effectiveness of public health services since providing public health services were now included in the mandate of the island councils.

Maldives gov't calls on the opposition to join hands to address economic woes
AFP has reported that the government on Thursday invited the opposition to join hands to address economic woes after days of protests over alleged mismanagement and inflation. AFP reported that the government sought consensus with the opposition after United States Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Robert Blake said that it is important for the opposition to come together and not simply criticize what the government is doing but also come up with their own alternative, if they have an alternative, and then to negotiate in good faith to try to get an agreement plan.

Hundreds protest in Maldives; gov't vows crackdown
Hundreds of protesters in the Maldives joined an opposition-led rally Friday to protest soaring prices they blame on the government's reform policies. Officials warned the demonstration could turn "nasty" and vowed to break it up. Nearly 1,000 demonstrators turned up in this small Muslim nation's Republican Square after Friday prayers saying reforms proposed by International Monetary Fund has sent commodity prices high. Protesters have taken to the streets for five consecutive nights over soaring prices alleged mismanagement by the government and demanding President Mohamed Nasheed step down.

Hosts First Annual “Watermen” Event In Support of Global Water Conservation
Six Senses Resorts & Spas will host the Maldives’ first annual gathering of water sports icons and the world’s leading water conservationists from September 30th to October 4th this year. It is titled THE SIX SENSES WATERMEN. The timely focus will take place at the new Six Senses Laamu, the only resort within the remote Laamu Atoll, 150 km north of the equator and famed for its ultrafine soft sand and access to renowned southern Maldivian surf breaks. SIX SENSES WATERMEN offers an innovative, meaningful opportunity for guests to meet and learn from legendary surfers, wind and kite surfers, free divers and conservation leaders - and to play a unique part in moving our global community from “apathy to action”. (A succinct quote from Mohamed Nasheed, the Maldivian President and recipient of TIME magazine’s Hero of the Environment Award.)

Maldives oppose “Darusman Report”
Maldives Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Naseem addressing the media this morning said that Maldives strongly opposes the Darusman Report on war crimes against Sri Lanka stating that the country is being “unnecessarily harassed”. Naseem is currently in the country to discuss foreign polices between Sri Lanka and Maldives and emphasized that the report was not the basis of his visit. Pix by Pradeep Dilrukshana

5 May 2011 | Thursday

If businesses are based in Ruffiya it will strengthen the currency- Finance Minister
Dollar price will come down to MRf 10.00
Minister of Finance Ahmed Inaz has said that if all businesses in the country are based on local currency it will strengthen Maldivian Ruffiya. Speaking at the press conference held at President’s Office yesterday, Minister Inaz said that if services of the country are to be paid in local currency it will raise the exchange rate of the currency.

Jabir to compete for MDP Chairperson
Local businessman Abdullah Jabir has announced to compete for the now vacant post of Chairperson in the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). In an exclusive interview to Miadhu Daily, Abdullah Jabir who was a former member of the main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) said that he decided to run for Chair at the request of many of the members of the party. “I have decided to run for the Chairperson of MDP. I believe the party is in need of my role in the leadership of the party. And moreover the members have requested me to bid for the Chair,” Chairman of Yacht Tours said. Jabir said that he will do his utmost to thrive the party into new dimensions and to win the Presidency for the party in the 2013 elections.

President reaffirms his commitment to consolidate press freedom
In the keynote address at the ceremony jointly hosted by Maldives Media Council and the Maldivian media to commemorate World Press Freedom Day 2011, President Mohamed Nasheed pledged to stand firm with Maldivian media in their efforts to overcome the challenges they face.

Maldives Host Stars for Water Conservation Push
A huge gathering of water sports legends, global icons and leading conservationists will take place in the Maldives later this year, in support of water conservation worldwide. The Six Senses Watermen event will see the star-studded crowd descend on the Six Senses Laamu resort in the Maldives for music, food, water sports clinics and debates on issues surrounding water conservation. Big names at the event will include actress and environmentalist Jane Seymour, singer and keen surfer Jason Mraz, Australian inventor of the short board Bob McTavish, US surf legend and face of Ralph Lauren Polo Sport Buzzy Kerbox, and many more.

President meets UNICEF resident representative to Maldives
President Mohamed Nasheed has met with UNICEF Resident Representative to the Maldives Ms Zeba Tanvir Bukhari yesterday. President Nasheed and Ms Bukhari discussed the UNICEF programmes in the Maldives focusing on enhancing collaboration between the government and UNICEF.

President inaugurates
MNDF Coast Guard Training School and Marine Corps Training School
President and the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Mohamed Nasheed, has yesterday inaugurated the Coast Guard Training School and Marine Corps Training School of Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) established in Lhaviyani Atoll Maafilaafushi.

US diplomat asks Maldives government, opposition to work for consensus on economic policies
A U.S. diplomat has asked the Maldives government and opposition to work for consensus on ways to bridge the country's budget deficit, an issue that has led to a fifth night of anti-government demonstrations in the capital. U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Robert O. Blake said Wednesday that Maldives opposition, which objects to a government decision allowing the country's currency to float against the U.S. dollar, must come up with its own proposals and negotiate with the government.

4 May 2011 | Wednesday

Government Condemns former President Gayoom for Orchestrating Third Night of Violent Protests

The government has condemned the actions of the Z-faction of the opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (Z-DRP), led by former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, for organizing a third night of violent protests in the Maldives capital Male’. Protestors, led by Members of Parliament aligned to the Z-DRP, gathered last night at around 9pm. Scuffles broke out between anti and pro-government supporters, before police dispersed the crowd with tear gas and made a number of arrests.At around 1am, anti-government protestors regrouped near the Maldives Monetary Authority. When the police dispersed the crowd, protestors set fire to motorbikes and smashed the windows of a police station and a local business.

Hong Kong issues travel advisory for Maldives
International media has reported that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government Tuesday issued an amber Outbound Travel Alert (OTA) for those intending to visit Maldives. Miadhu Daily understands that the Hong Kong government took the decision in light of the recent mass protests and demonstrations held continuously every night in the capital. A Hong Kong government spokesman said: "Those who plan to visit the Maldives or are already there should monitor the situation and exercise caution."

Although Maldives has a free press, thousands of journalists are in prison elsewhere in the world- Pres.
President Mohamed Nasheed has said that though Maldives has a free press, thousands of journalists are in prison elsewhere in the world. In his keynote address at the ceremony held at Dharubaaruge last night to commemorate World Press Freedom Day 2011, President Nasheed said that in countries where there are widespread press censorship and restrictions on freedom of expression, journalists are restricted and repressed.

Dollar shortage was caused by the excess MRF 300 billion- Shiyam
Chairman of Suntravels, Ahmed Shiyam Mohamed has said that Maldives is facing a shortage of foreign currency not because of the decrease of foreign currency income but rather because of the excess 300 billion Ruffiya printed by the government from 2004 to 2009. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Shiyam said that in the last two to four years, the foreign currency income of the country has been gradually increasing. He said that he believes that the foreign currency income of this year will be even much greater than that earned in the past.

Government condemns former President Gayoom
for Orchestrating Third Night of Violent Protests
The government has condemned the actions of the Z-faction of the opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (Z-DRP), led by former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, for organizing a third night of violent protests in the Maldives capital Male’.

Gov’t to cut import duty on diesel fuel by 50 Percent
After deliberating on the impact of increasing prices of diesel fuel in the world market to Maldivian economy, the Cabinet has today decided to cut import duty on diesel fuel by 50 percent. State Trading Organisation (STO) has recently increased price of diesel fuel twice, in response to rising world oil prices, especially the price of diesel fuel. The Cabinet’s decision comes after in depth discussion, at today’s Cabinet meeting, on abating drastic fluctuations in diesel prices in the Maldivian market in quick successions due to unpredictable world fuel prices.

British foreign secretary marks world press freedom day
Speaking to mark the day, Foreign Secretary William Hague said:
“Today we remember those working to report the truth or to represent different views around the world. I pay tribute to the journalists, bloggers and media organisations that play such an important role, often at great personal risk in countries with widespread press censorship and restrictions on freedom of expression. They have made history during recent events in the Middle East, giving ordinary citizens a voice despite media restrictions and repression of journalists. “The events in the Middle East demonstrate an important lesson – that restricting the media and seeking to ignore popular concern does not work. Governments need to respond to legitimate aspirations with reform not repression. Encouraging an open and effective press will only help improve the environment for long-term social, political and economic stability.”

Mubadala set to open Maldives resort in 2011
Abu Dhabi's Mubadala Development Company has announced that its luxury Viceroy Maldives resort will officially open on September 1, 2011. The resort is being developed by Vagaru Holdings Pvt Ltd, a joint venture between Mubadala and Maldives-based luxury hotel developer, EoN Resorts. It falls under the expanding portfolio of the Viceroy Hotels and Resorts brand. Mubadala is a 50% shareholder in Viceroy Hotel Group, and is driving the expansion of the hospitality brand into key global destinations. The Maldives property is the first Viceroy resort outside of North America.

Blake leaves strong message for Maldivian opposition
United States Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Robert Blake Jr. had a strong message to the opposition in The Maldives: work with the Government or allow the Government to handle the crisis. The Maldives witnessed its biggest protests in recent times following the decision of the government to allow its currency, the Rufiya, to float in a 20 per cent band, effectively pushing up prices of all commodities by 20 per cent. Maldives imports all its needs. The decision is part of a package of measures the government has introduced on the advice of the central bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and other multi lateral organisations, in order to reduce the country’s budget deficit and stabilise the economy.

First Shari’ah-compliant resort to open in Maldives
LHM recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Maldives' Kalaidhu Investment Pvt. to partner in the resort's undertaking. Nasser Lootah, Member of the Board of Directors of S.S. Lootah Group and CEO of Lootah Hotel Management said, “We are happy to be partnering with Kalaidhu Investment for our upcoming resort project. The decision comes as part of the Group's strategy to expand its footprint and customer base towards prestigious tourism destinations around the world.” Nasser Lootah added that Islamic hospitality is gaining popularity with those who prefer quality services provided in a calm atmosphere commensurate with family values. Abdulla Saeed, Managing Director, Kalaidhu Investment said, “We are pleased to be partnering with the pioneer of Islamic hospitality in the UAE. This offers a unique opportunity for us to work towards the development of universally recognised 'Halal standards' for Shari’ah-compliant hotels and resorts, to comply with and create similar guidelines for the benefit of the hospitality and tourism industry.”

First Sharia'h compliant resort to open in Maldives
Lootah Hotel Management (LHM), the leading company in family-oriented and Islamic hospitality in the UAE, has announced the opening of the first Sharia'h compliant resort in the Maldives by 2013. LHM recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Maldives' Kalaidhu Investment Pvt. Ltd. to partner in the resort's undertaking.

A VIP Seaplane Departure Lounge in The Maldives? We Want to Go to There.
Our love of Airport Lounges around the world knows no bounds, even when it comes to helicopter departure lounges. Thus, it shouldn't be a surprise that when our sister site HotelChattermentioned that three luxury hotels in the Maldives share a VIP Seaplane lounge at Malé International Airport in the, our ears perked up. The Waldorf-Astoria's Beach House Resort, Hilton's Iru Fushi Resort and the Conrad Rangali Island Resort allows their guests—many of whom are dropping over four figures for each night at the hotels—to chillax in this special space that includes free WiFi, an open-air terrace, a small plates buffet cooked by a resident chef and complimentary shoulder massages.

A final test for the Coast Guard officer candidates
Members of the United States Coast Guard Officer Candidate School, the second class to graduate in 2011, participate in a final drill competition, awards ceremony and pass and review on the Washington Parade Field at the Coast Guard Academy Tuesday, May 3, 2011. Thirty seven U.S. students and five international students from Maldives, Bahamas and Jamaica completed a rigorous 17-week course of instruction which prepares candidates to serve as officers in the United States Coast Guard.

Six Senses Resorts & Spas Choose GramercyOne's SpaBooker for their Global Online Booking and Spa Management Software
Six Senses Resorts & Spas has formed a partnership with GramercyOne LLC, the New York-based provider of spa management software SpaBooker. Six Senses has already launched SpaBooker in two of its flagship properties in the Maldives: Soneva Fushi by Six Senses and Soneva Gili by Six Senses. The newest Maldives location, Six Sense Laamu, opened its doors April 2 with SpaBooker. Additional locations around the world are to follow. The Six Senses Spa division is represented by 29 company-operated spas and the group recently launched the Six Senses Sanctuary brand designed to enrich people's lifestyles through complete immersion into healthy and mindful living. Following the opening of its first property in 1995, Six Senses has been recognized as

3 May 2011 | Tuesday

Big rally over soaring price of goods scheduled for Friday
A large number of people staged demonstrations against the government at the ‘Junction Square’ yesterday night too, over the soaring prices of goods and services, while a large rally was announced for Friday to be held at the Republican Square right after Friday.

Important for opposition to come up with alternatives rather than criticize the gov’t-Blake
United States Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Robert Blake has said that it is important for them to come together and not simply criticize what the government is doing but also come up with their own alternative, if they have an alternative, and then to negotiate in good faith to try to get an agreement plan.

Crime Prevention Bill sent back to committee
The special Crime Prevention Bill with the ‘sunset clause’ drafted by the government to reduce and prevent the escalating organised crime, gang violence and assault has been sent back to the committee for further evaluation.

US Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs calls on the Pres.
United States Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs Robert Blake has called on President Mohamed Nasheed yesterday. At meeting held at the President’s Office, President Nasheed and US Assistant Secretary of State Blake exchanged views on domestic and international political situation especially in the Middle East. They also discussed issues of mutual concern and ways of enhancing cooperation between the Maldives and the United States.

Member of GLF and Former President of Mauritius meets Pres. Nasheed
Member of Global Leadership Foundation (GLF) and Former President of Mauritius Cassam Uteem and Secretary-General of GLF Sir Robin Christopher have paid a courtesy call on President Mohamed Nasheed yesterday.

Maldives votes to support Human Rights Council Special Session Resolution on human rights in Syria
The United Nations Human Rights Council discussed a draft Resolution on the human rights situation in the Syrian Arab Republicon 29 April. The Sixteenth Special Session of the Council, called by the US delegation on 27 April, saw Member States vote to adopt a resolution that condemns human rights violations in Syria and requests the UN Office of the High-Commissioner of Human Rights (OHCHR) to send a fact-finding mission to investigate alleged crimes.

2 May 2011 | Monday

Gov’t to remove Import Duties on many items from 2012– Pres.
President Mohamed Nasheed, speaking at a function to mark International Workers’ Day, has announces a number of tax reform measures to be introduced by the government aimed at reducing the prices of goods and services. The President announced that the government would propose an amendment to import duties to the People’s Majlis in June to remove import duties on basic and everyday items in the market from 2012.

Thasmeen and Gasim join protests on soaring price of commodities
-Both factions of DRP joined the last night’s protests
-MDP Moosa Manik and activists defy the protestors
Leader of the main opposition party Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), Ahmed Thasmeen Ali and leader of opposition party Jumhooree Party (JP), Gasim Ibrahim have joined the protests on the escalating price of commodities and services last night. Speaking to the protestors, DRP Leader Thasmeen said that the life of the people are going backward with soaring prices, ailing health care system, a flagging economy, and rife corruption. He said that although there might be political differences, all must unite together for the people.

MDP celebrates Dr. Didi and Alhan’s success in the internal elections
-Home work to participate in Presidential elections is now being done- Didi
-Alhan appeals Gayyoom to accept the political reality
The ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has held a special function at Artificial Beach area yesterday night to celebrate the success of Dr. Ibrahim Didi and Alhan Famy in the party’s internal elections. Former Fisheries Minister Dr. Didi and Feydhoo MP Alhan Fahmy have been elected as the President and Vice President of the ruling MDP respectively.

Shariah should be the point of reference-Sheikh Ilyas
At the pro-Shariah law rally held near the Tsunami Monument, Sheikh Ilyas Hussein argued that Shariah law is the solution for all of country's problems. The participants of ‘Solution is in the Shariah law’ called on the people to advocate Shariah law, and to run the country's by the Shariah law. Sheikh Ilyas said that the believers have been commanded to refer all matters back to Allah and His Messenger by referring back to the Quran and Sunnah. He said that the Book of Allah and the guidance of the Prophet should become the ‘point of reference’ and the criteria whereby we judge and extract the truth.

IFM trains students for Quran competition
Four students trained by Islamic Foundation of the Maldives Miladhoo Wing have taken part in the Noonu Atoll Quran recitation competition jointly organised by National Centre for Quran and the Atoll Council. A total of 83 student competitors from 8 islands took part in the competition held on 28-30 April at Noonu atoll Manadhoo. IFM trained students include: Shammoon Ahmed (Rauhaa); Aishath Naadhima (Roashaneege); Aishath Jennifer (Aahiya); Mariyam Samaha (Rankokaage). Ahmed Ibrahim, the vice president of IFM Noonu Miladhoo Wing noted that all the above mentioned student competitors won significant places in their age groups and Mariyam Samaha has been qualified to take part in the National Quran Recitation Competition.

Utah church offers free Korans in Easter gesture
Reuters) – A Utah church is giving away free copies of the Koran in an Easter season ecumenical riposte to the recent burning of the Islamic holy book by a controversial Florida pastor. The Wasatch Presbyterian Church has ordered 50 copies of the Koran to be distributed at a local bookstore starting on Monday. “We’re not promoting Islam, we’re not saying the Koran is the Bible,” said Scott Dalgarno, the church’s pastor. “We’re just saying that if people are curious, if they want their consciences informed on this issue … then let them pick up a copy on us and read it and decide for themselves what to think.”

Venice turns to floating barriers to ward off flood threats
Flood-prone Venice has launched an ambitious plan to build mobile barriers at the mouth of its lagoon and protect the city from rising sea levels. About 3,000 people are involved in the "Moses" project, which costs 5.4 billion euros ($7.9 billion), and is scheduled for completion in 2014.

1 May 2011 | Sunday

Demonstration over escalating price of commodities and services initiated
Demonstration over the escalating price of commodities and services has been initiated yesterday night at 21:00 hrs. The demonstrations organised by many of the youth and the public, imitating the demonstrations held in Egypt at the Tahrir Square, was held over the growing concerns and worries among the population over the escalating price of commodities and services.

Dr. Didi elected as President and Alhan as Vice President of MDP
Former Fisheries Minister Dr. Ibrahim Didi and Feydhoo MP Alhan Fahmy have been elected as the President and Vice President of the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) respectively according to the results of the MDP internal elections revealed. At 5:30 in the morning, MDP elections committee’s Spokesperson, Thinadhoo MP Mohamed Gasam said that according the votes counted so far, Dr. Didi who is running for the post of the President of MDP got 6909 votes and his rival, President’s Special Envoy Hussein Zaki got 6554 votes. Gasam said that Alhan Fahmy got 7709 votes and his rival, Minister of Housing and Environment Mohamed Aslam got 5421 votes. Miadhu Daily has been informed that Minister Aslam has now sent his congratulations to Alhan Fahmy who competed with him in the elections for the post of Vice President.

AP rally was a success- Shaheem
Former State Minister for Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that the public rally organised by Adalaat Party (AP) under the slogan “Solution is ruling by the Sharia of Allah” was a success. Shaheem said that as long as the imposed system is not the system of Islamic Sharia, then the country will be met with failures. He said that this is because, the Sharia of Islam is the one and only solution for the multi-dimensional crisis in this country. AP and local NGOs held the demonstration near the Tsunami Monument on Friday under the slogan “Solution lies in ruling by the Sharia of Allah”. AP said that the social fabric of the country have been torn with the escalating rate of sexual abuse, gang assaults using lethal weapons, battery, murder, gang related violence and other organised crime. According to AP, the march will be designed to raise awareness among the public about the current escalation of rape, sexual assault and domestic violence and that the solution to all these woes of the society lies in judging and ruling in accordance to law of Allah.

Moosa Manik calls for the resignation of Deputy Speaker
Hulhuhenveyru MP and ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) parliamentary group leader, Moosa Manik has called for the resignation of Deputy Speaker of the Peoples’ Majlis and Dhiggaru MP Ahmed Nazim. Moosa Manik said that cases of corruption have been raised against the Deputy Speaker so it is best that he resigns from his post. Moosa Manik also said that it will be now east to win a no-confidence vote against Nazim. He said that he fears that Nazim will be convicted with corruption. “When the trials of these cases filed against Nazim, I will not say that he will be able to save himself from going to prison. Innumerable cases of corruption have been raised against him,” he said.

Gov’t reiterates commitment to protect employee and employer rights
In this week´s radio address, that was broadcast Friday morning, President Mohamed Nasheed highlighted the Labour Day to be officialy marked for the first time. President Mohamed Nasheed reiterated the government´s commitment to protect and promote the rights of both employees and employers.

Blake visits Maldives
United States Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asian Affairs, Mr. Robert O. Blake, Jr., has visited Maldives on yesterday. This is the second such official visit in four months. Former U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lankan and Maldives, Blake landed in Maldives during his visit to Sri Lanka to meet local leaders in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu.

British High Commissioner wishing Prince William and Kate married bliss
The international media is a-buzz with news of Prince William and Catherine Middleton’s wedding. In Sri Lanka, the winners of the Royal Wedding Facebook competition were announced on Thursday, 28 April, 2011, the eve of the wedding.

Pres. appeals for public support in gov’ts efforts to address escalating gang violence
Underlining the joint effort by all relevant government agencies to prevent the escalating violent crime in the country, President Mohamed Nasheed said every Maldivian had a duty to prevent crime and restore society´s safety and security. He appealed all Maldivians to cooperate with the concerned parties in their battle against crime and restore safety in the country.

Maldives Named as Germany’s Dream Holiday Destination
According to a recent survey, the Maldives topped a list of dream holiday destinations for Germans. It revealed that if money were not an issue, most German tourists would opt for a holiday to the Indian Ocean nation. The Maldives is a popular tourist destination for Europeans, including many Germans, who flock to resorts across the archipelago for their holidays. The country is the Maldives’ third-largest market, with 2009 statistics showing 69,085 arrivals at Male’ International Airport from German citizens.

Foreign Minister to attend CMAG
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ahmed Naseem will be attending the nine-member Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) in London yesterday. CMAG, which comprises foreign ministers, will continue discussions on how its role can be strengthened, under a mandate handed down by Commonwealth Heads of Government at their last meeting in Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, in November 2009.

IFM trains students for Quran competition
Four students trained by Islamic Foundation of the Maldives Miladhoo Wing have taken part in the Noonu Atoll Quran recitation competition jointly organised by National Centre for Quran and the Atoll Council.

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