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                 30 September 2012 | Sunday              


Climate Crisis Threatens Food Security Of Iran , Kuwait , Libya , Maldives , Togo , Comoros And Many Other Countries
Seafood and fish provide protein to more than a billion of the poorest people around the world. But climate crisis is threatening seafood and fish in gulfs, seas and oceans. As a result, countries dependent mainly on fish and seafood are threatened.

[Read More]


CMAG’s withdrawal of Maldives from its agenda was encouragement to uphold country's sovereignty-President

President Dr Mohamed Waheed said that the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG)’s decision to withdraw Maldives from its agenda was encouragement to continue to resolve our domestic issues on our own, and to uphold the sovereignty of the country. The President made this remark while addressing the nation via Skype from New York, following the CMAG’s meeting.

[Read More]


Can live in the country if we abide to the law and judiciary system – Thaufeeq

Political Advisor to the President Ahmed Thaufeeq has said that we can live in the country if we abide to the law and also by accepting the judiciary system of the country. Answering a question from Miadhu news, Thaufeeq said Maldives is a 100% muslim country and the laws are based on this , so nobody can do whatever they can because the Maldives constitution does not allow to bring these kind of changes.

[Read More]


A Maldivian and a Bangladeshi arrested at airport with Christian literature in Dhivehi

Maldives Customs Service has informed that a Maldivian man and a Bangladeshi man were arrested at Ibrahim Nasir International Airport with Christian literature in Dhivehi language. In a press conference held at Customs Head Office yesterday, Chief Customs Officer Ahmed Simah said that both of the men arrested came to Maldives from Colombo, Sri Lanka on September 27, Thursday. He said that the Bangladeshi is a 44 year old man named Jathish Biswas. He did not reveal the name of the Maldivian.

[Read More]


CMAG doesn’t have condition on not having Nasheed’s trail – Abbas

President’s Press Secretary Abbas Adil Riza has said that Maldives was taken out of CMAG agenda not conditioning of not having ex President Mohamed Nasheed’s trail and also not conditioning to give chance for Nasheed to run in the election. Speaking to Miadhu News, Abbas said, MDP leaders and officials are saying that Maldives was taken out of CMAG agenda because the government accepted CMAG’s condition on not having Nasheed’s trail and withdrawing all allegations against him and to give chance for him to run in next presidential election. He said these are false information and MDP is using this tactic to gain support from the members of the party. He said MDP always uses these kind of tactics to garner support of the members.

[Read More]


Canadian Foreign Minister is trying to hold up his fallen friend- PPM

The Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) has stated that the Canadian Foreign Minister is trying to hold up his fallen friend former President Mohamed Nasheed by his statement regarding the decision of Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG). PPM Council member Ali Arif said that the Canadian Foreign Minister’s statements are in contradiction to the statements issued by the CMAG and the other 7 members of the group. He said that this matter will be raised to the Canadian government.

[Read More]


Foreign Ministry concerned with the spread of misinformation by the Canadian Foreign Minister

Foreign Ministry of Maldives has stated that the Government of Maldives is disappointed with the statement by the Canadian Foreign Minister taking political sides with the opposition in the Maldives, and further fuelling misinformation about the CMAG and its decision on the Maldives. Foreign Ministry stated that the statement released by CMAG very clearly notes that Maldives has been taken off the formal agenda and will be resuming its seat as a full member of the CMAG at its next meeting.

[Read More]


Freedom of expression should not be used as an excuse to insult religion - President Waheed

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has said that freedom of expression should not be used as an excuse to insult religion, incite hatred or provoke communal violence. The President made this remark while delivering his statement at the General Debate of the Sixty-Seventh Session of the United Nations General Assembly. Referring to the recent anti-Islamic video demeaning Prophet Muhammad S.A.W, the President said that the Maldives strongly condemned this low-level, blasphemous act, which provoked demonstrations around the world.

[Read More]


Islamic Minister appreciates President for condemning anti islam film on Prophet Mohamed

Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has thanked President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik for condemning the film made against Prophet Mohamed and Islam, during his speech at the UN’s Gerenal Assembly. Sheikh Shaheem said he congratulate President Waheed personally, as the Minister of Islamic Affairs and as the chief translator of Adaalat Party, for speaking the truth and expressing anger to this act infront of the opponents of Islam and the powerful countries. He also thanked the President for speaking effectively to the rights of the Palestinian people. He said Maldives was put into CMAG agenda illegally and Maldives was removed from the agenda because of Almighty’s help and by DR. Waheed’s hard work .


Maldives get a 30 million dollar aid on renewable energy – President

President Dr.Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik has said that Maldives has got an aid of 30 million US dollar to start a power production project by using renewable energy. Speaking to VTV on Friday night, Dr. Waheed said he had been working on getting aid to revive Maldivian economy during his visit to New York. Dr.Waheed said due to the renewable energy project, the people of the country will get a big relief when they have to pay their electric bills. He said within a year the electric bills will be reduced very much.

[Read More]


                 29 September 2012 | Saturday              


President Waheed says that CMAG’s withdrawal of Maldives from its agenda was encouragement to uphold the country's sovereignty

President Dr Mohamed Waheed said that the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG)’s decision to withdraw Maldives from its agenda was encouragement to continue to resolve our domestic issues on our own, and to uphold the sovereignty of the country. The President made this remark while addressing the nation via Skype from New York, following the CMAG’s meeting. The President said that this decision of the CMAG was indeed a remarkable victory for justice, constitutional governance, democracy, diplomacy and foreign policy, and the people of Maldives. He also said that the Maldives would now resume its place as a member of the CMAG.

[Read More]


“Freedom of expression should not be used as an excuse to insult religion, incite hatred or provoke communal violence” - President Waheed

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has said that freedom of expression should not be used as an excuse to insult religion, incite hatred or provoke communal violence. The President made this remark while delivering his statement at the General Debate of the Sixty-Seventh Session of the United Nations General Assembly. Referring to the recent anti-Islamic video demeaning Prophet Muhammad S.A.W, the President said that the Maldives strongly condemned this low-level, blasphemous act, which provoked demonstrations around the world.

[Read More]


Consumer fair with cheaper rates opened

A Consumer fair with most of the items with cheaper rate has been opened at Dharubaaruge. Minister of Economics Mr.Ahmed Mohamed opened the fair at a grand ceremony which was attended by senior officials from the renowned companies. This fair gives big opportunities for those who want to do business. And in this fair lots of products from Maldives and abroad is available with discounts and for those who want to test on the products can get opportunities to test on them. It also provides opportunities of getting jobs and information from various companies like V media.

[Read More]


Maldives doesn’t have extreme viewed people – Sheikh Shaheem

Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that Maldives doesn’t have extreme viewed people and if there are people like that, the country will not let it happen and the government too will not let these people do their work in the country. Sheikh Shaheem expressed this during a meeting with the visiting US Ambassador to Maldives Ms.Michelle. Giving a statement of the meeting, the Ministry said people with different views are in the Maldivian democracy but the Maldivian Islamic scholars doesn’t support views of Al Qaeda. And Maldives a good example among the Islamic nations.

[Read More]


Questions arise whether there will be Islam in Maldives if MDP gained 58 seats.

Parliament member of Maavashu constituency Abdul Azeez Jamaal has said that questions will arise whether Islam will be there if MDP had got 58 seats during the parliamentary elections. Azeez said MDP came to power to get lots of money through various means but they couldn’t get the expected number of seats in the parliament and this is the biggest loss to them.

[Read More]


Preseident says don’t look democracy as an individual at the U.N

President Dr.Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik has said that in every country don’t look democracy as an individual. Speaking at the UN General Assembly, the President said, he is concerned that some big countries are interfering the young democracy of Maldives, since democracy provides every country’s constitution, how the people to live and their cultures and faith. He expressed his concern on issuing reports of Maldives by groups like Amnesty International by not looking into the actual cases. He also stated that Commonwealth too, didn’t look into the actual circumstances and the constitution of the Maldives and ordered for an early election in the Maldives. Dr. Waheed said since Maldives is a small country, that doesn’t mean that Maldives should not get proper justice.

[Read More]


                 28 September 2012 | Friday              


Political Leaders will not be with you on the Day of judgement - VP Waheeduddeen

Vice President Mohamed Waheed uddeen has said that we are in this destination for a short period and we have to face the day of judgement and on that day no political leaders will be with us. Speaking at the ceremony held to inaugurate the 5th meeting of SAARC Ministers of Interior and Home, Waheed Deen called upon on everybody to work together to build the nation. He also said we are one and we are Maldivians.

[Read More]


History of a nation is never a single event or a single person – President

President Dr. Mohamed Waheed has said that the history of a nation is never a single event or a single person. The President said this while addressing the 67th session of the United Nations General Assembly. He said that the life of our nation comprises of the lives of all of us who live there. “We are the building blocks in the evolution of our countries.The knowledge, education, experience and the commitment we bring to our nation is what shapes our history. That is what makes our history unique. Respect for us and our small nation requires that our external partners do not under estimate our capacity to contribute to the shaping of our own destiny,” he said.

[Read More]


Media should not be used for libel and slander- CJ

Chief Judge Ahmed Faiz Hussain has said that the media should not be used as a tool to spread libelous statements and slander against people. Chief Judge Faiz made this remark at the special ceremony held to award certificates to journalists who participated in “Court House Coverage Training Program” conducted by Department of Judicial Administration.

[Read More]


There is no condition that should be proposed on removing Maldives from CMAG agenda – Waheed Deen

Vice President Mohamed Waheed Deen has said that there is no certain condition that should be proposed and no condition can be made on removing Maldives from Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group CMAG agenda. During a meeting with Pakistan’s Interior Minister Rahman Maalik, after concluding SAARC Interior Ministers meeting held at Bandos Island resort, Waheed Deen said, Maldives democracy is based on the country’s constitution. He said all the work is done according to the constitution and CMAG cannot order anything to do to Maldives.

[Read More]


Nasheed and Zaki meets Yaameen:

When Former Finance Minister Mr. Inaz Meets Yamin, Mr. Inaz becomes a criminal, when Mr Nasheed Meets Yamin, Nasheed becomes pious. Former President Mohamed Nasheed and his special advisor during his presidency, Hussain Zaki have met the Progressive Party of Maldives’ (PPM)’s Parliamentary Group leader Baaghee? Abdullah Yaameen. The meeting was held at the residency of Zaki at H. Hulhugali last night. PPM Parliamentary group leader Abdullah Yaameen informed the media after the meeting that the meeting was held at the request of former President Nasheed. Yaameen said that the meeting was held to discuss on continuing the “Leaders Dialogue” before the start of the sessions of the Peoples’ Majlis to resolve the political issues. Yaameen said that Nasheed mentioned that it is important to continue the dialogue before the start of the Majlis.

[Read More]


Finance committee agrees to take USD25 million loan.
Finance Committee has agrred to take USD25 million loan from India as budget support. During the 47th meeting of the finance committee, the committee agreed to take USD100 million as stand by credit facility. Of this facility USD50 million is to be designated to imports from India while the other USD50 million is to be provided as budget support. It has been reported that the Indian cabinet has approved to provide USD75 million as budget support loan as requested by the Maldivian government and the remaining USD25 million has been set to be provided as payment for imports from India by the Maldives. The committee also agreed to take MRF500 million loan on housing. While giving loans on housing, priorities will be given to people from Male who have started constructing their houses but could not complete due to financial problems. The loans will be handed to Housing Development Finance Cooperation HDFC.


Maldives is the ground zero for monitoring the impact of changing global climate - President
President Dr. Mohamed Waheed has noted that “if there is a ground zero for observing and monitoring the impacts of global climate, that would be Maldives”. The President made his remarks yesterday at a function hosted by the Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina, to launch the 2nd Climate Vulnerability Monitor. Bangladesh hosted this event as the current Chair of the Climate Vulnerable Forum. The first Climate Vulnerability Monitor was launched under the Maldives chairmanship of the Forum in 2010.

[Read More]


SAARC Secretary General calls on the Vice President
The Secretary General of SAARC Mr Ahmed Saleem has yesterday paid a courtesy call on Vice President Mohamed Waheed Deen. At the meeting held at the President’s Office this morning, the Vice President and the SAARC Secretary General noted the success of the Fifth meeting of the SAARC Minister of Interior / Home, inaugurated yesterday. Discussions were also held on finding ways that the Maldives could seek SAARC’s assistance in achieving various developmental targets.


Government cannot run without media - Mohamed Saleem
Minister of State for Home Affairs Mr. Mohamed Saleem has said that a government cannot run without media. Speaking at the ceremony to give certificates who completed the Self Defence Skill Training held for media personnel by Maldives Police, Saleem said government cannot run without media because media is the body which shows the government the right way to the government. Saleem said media is the fourth power of a government and the watchdog to the government. He also said compared to the region Maldivian media personnel are very capable people.

[Read More]


Cabinet Endorses Renewable Energy Investment Plan to Transform Energy Sector in Maldives
The government has developed a renewable energy investment plan to transform fossil fuel dependent energy sector in the Maldives. The plan has been developed under the Scaling-up of Renewable Energy Programme (SREP) of the Climate Investment Fund. The investment plan, which was prepared by the Ministry of Environment and Energy, in collaboration with technical assistance from the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and International Finance Corporation, will leverage investments totalling 139 million US dollars. The government will present the investment plan to the SREP subcommittee meeting scheduled to take place in Istanbul on 30 October this year for approval.

[Read More]


“It is time for the Maldives to move on” say Alistair Burt
The UK Minister for South Asia, Alistair Burt has said that it is time for the Maldives to move on following the release of the report of the Commission of National Inquiry in August this year. He said this at his meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Abdul Samad Abdullah today on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. During the meeting, the two ministers agreed that the time was right to ‘move on’ following the findings of the Commission of National Inquiry (CoNI), democracy and explore ways in which political differences in the country could be resolved through dialogue.

[Read More]


SAARC passes resolution against anti-Islam film
The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Interior Ministers’ Conference has passed the resolution moved by Pakistan against the anti-Islam film. Interior Minister Rehman Malik had presented a resolution against the blasphemous video at the SAARC Interior Ministers’ Conference in Male, Maldives, said a message received from Maldives on Wednesday. Malik had urged all Muslim countries to frame laws for stopping blasphemy, as it harmed the spirit of interfaith harmony. He had condemned the inflammatory movie on behalf of the whole Muslim world, demanding action against those committing blasphemy. He said the government had honoured its commitment of raising the issue on all available forums. SAARC interior ministers appreciated the resolution, which said that events like the sacrilegious movie had caused damage to efforts for interfaith harmony. They said terrorists were trying to mislead the people in the name of religion agencies.


Maldivian airline to connect Chennai, Mumbai from November
With growing passenger traffic between the Maldives and India, Maldivian, the national airlines of the Maldives will fly to Mumbai and between Chennai and Dhaka from November and connect New Delhi and Kolkata later, said a top official. "We will be connecting Chennai-Dhaka and Mumbai from November onwards. We will look at flying between New Delhi and Kolkata later. We have landing rights in the four metros," Abdul Haris, managing director at Island Aviation Services Ltd told reporters here Wednesday. The $50 million-worth Island Aviation owns the Maldivian airline. Haris said the airline will soon add an aircraft to its fold to connect the new destinations. Already, Maldivian connects Male and Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala.


Police busted 25 massage parlors this year
Maldives Police Service has busted 25 massage parlors in suspicion to prostitution during different operations carried out this year under the operational priorities to minimize organized crime. Deputy Head of Serious and Organized Crime Department, Inspector of Police Mohamed Dhaoodh revealed that no spas or massage parlors from any tourist resorts were busted during these operations. Dhauoodh disclosed these parlors include three busted on March, three busted on April, five busted on May, six busted on June, five busted on July, one busted on August and four busted on this September.

[Read More]


                 27 September 2012 | Thursday              


President starts work on increasing Haj quota from 1000 to 2000.

Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali has said that President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik has started to increase Haj quota from 1000 to 2000. At a news conference held at the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Sheikh Shaheem said by the grace of the almighty, inshallah Maldives will get the 2000 quota. And the President has confidence in getting the amount.

[Read More]


Vice President calls on all Maldivians to work together in building our nation

Vice President Mohamed Waheed Deen has today called on all Maldivians to hold hands and work together to build our nation. The Vice President made this appeal while delivering the inaugural address at the Fifth meeting of the SAARC Minister of Interior / Home. The Vice President said that we must always remember that we all belong to the family of Maldivians and that parties cannot and should not separate us.

[Read More]


India, Maldives sign MoU for building police institute

India and Maldives today signed an MoU for building a state of the art police institute for security and law enforcement studies at an estimated cost of USD 18.3 million at a Maldivian island. The MoU was signed by visiting Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde and his Maldivian counterpart Mohamed Jameel Ahmed at Bandos Island Resort on the sidelines of the 5th meeting of the SAARC Interior/Home Ministers.

[Read More]


Government will make the arrangements for the pilgrims on departure and arrival – Sheikh Shaheem

Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that the government will make all the arrangements for the Haj pilgrims on departure and arrival. At a news conference, Shaheem said expenditures like the ferry fare will be for free for the haj pilgrims and for their families and friends. He also said, all the pilgrims will leave from the jetties infront of Jumhooree maidhaan and the ferry service will be given by MTCC. And also he said tents will be held at Jumhooree maidhaan to felicitate the pilgrims.

[Read More]


MDP Criticizes Detention of President Nasheed as Politically Motivated
The opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has criticized the Hulhumale’ Megistrate Court's detention of former President Mohamed Nasheed as politically motivated. In a notice to the defendant issued on Tuesday evening the Hulhumale’ Megistrate Court placed Nasheed under Male' arrest, which means he cannot leave the capital island, or the country, without the Court's prior permission. “This detention is politically motivated, aimed solely at preventing President Nasheed from campaigning ahead of next year's elections” said MDP spokesperson Hamid Abdul Gafoor.

[Read More]


FAIM members meet Indian Home Minister

Members of the Friendship Association of India-Maldives (FAIM) has met India’s Union Minister of Home Affairs and requested to resolve the visa matters. The Indian Home Minister, Mr. Sushilkumar Shinde visited Maldives for the SAARC Home Minister’s meeting held in Maldives. During his visit, the President, Vice President, Joint Secretary, Treasurer and Executive Committee members of FAIM paid a courtesy call on the Minister Sushulkumar Shinde on 26thSeptember, 2012.

[Read More]


Simplification of visa procedure stressed for Maldives’ students
(APP): State Minister, Ministry of Education of the Republic of Maldives, Aminath Ali on Wednesday highlighted the need to simplify the visa procedure for the students of Maldives intending to join Pakistani institutes. She was speaking at a meeting with Minister of State for Education and Training, Shahjahan Yousaf and other officials at the ministry.She suggested that if concerned universities and institutes are authorized to recommend applications for students visas to the Foreign Office as is the practice all over the world, it can facilitate in streamlining the issues and addressing the concerns. Aminath also expressed keen interest in academic programmes such as Shariah & Law offered by International Islamic University and other disciplines of Science and Technology offered by NUST.


Big game fishing – a day at the ocean

Maldives Promotion House – The Maldives is known for its postcard perfect beauty, and the many idyllic retreats scattered throughout the tiny island country draws thousands of travellers to this destination every year. Of the many secrets hidden in the Maldives, fishing is a pursuit that runs deep in the native blood. The Maldivians share a rich history and a culture of fishing; the traditional and primary means of gathering food in the early days and even in the modern day.

[Read More]


Foreign influence will not save Nasheed from the law- Abbas

Press Secretary Abbas Adil Riza has said that foreign influences will not save former President Mohamed Nasheed from the law. Abbas said that Nasheed should not expect that the government will hesitate from foreign influences and Nasheed cannot save himself from getting prosecuted for the crimes he has committed. Abbas said that the government has explained this to everyone and so no one will be having any doubts regarding the government’s stand.

[Read More]


Nasheed’s Final Destination Alarmed: summoned for court

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has been summoned by the Civil Court for defaming Defence Minister Mohamed Nazim calling him a “rebel”. Civil Court official revealed that Nasheed was given the summon notice and he should appear at Court on October 2 over the defamation charged filed by Minister Nazim. Defence Minister Nazim and Commissioner of Police Riyaz filed a case at Civil Court against former President Nasheed for defaming them by calling them “rebels” in his speech following the release of the final report of the Commission of National Inquiry (CoNI).

[Read More]


Prize Awarded for Winners of Dhiraagu Roadha Hadhiya Promotions

Prize Awarding Ceremony for the Lucky Winners of Dhiraagu Roadha Hadhiya Promotions has been held yesterday at Lecute Life Style Show Room. The special awarding ceremony was hosted by Dhiraague in collaboration with Lintel Investment Pvt Ltd. According to the company, Lintel Investment Pvt Ltd is Dhiraagu’s Partner of Roadha Hadhiya Promotion 2012.

[Read More]


Solving of the problems will arise due to the delay of GMR report – Abbas
Press Secretary Mr.Abbas Adil Riza has said that due to the delay of the Report from Anti corruption on GMR case will create problems to the work being carried out by the government. He said Anti Corruption Commission was to release the report on the 15th of this month. And still they haven’t done with the report which is a concerning thing, Abbas said. He said if ACC had released the report on 15th , then it would be very easy for the government to take a decision on GMR.

[Read More]


Sri Lanka: Travel advisory and more...
N Sathiya Moorthy

It is heartening to note that after a series of incidents where visiting Sri Lankans were at the receiving end of mob attacks, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa has promised that her Government would ensure the safety and security of the common man from the island-nation in the south Indian State. It was even more heartening that former Chief Minister and Opposition DMK supremo M Karunanidhi had earlier drawn the distinction between in his party's oppositioin to the Sri Lankan State and its political leadership on the one hand, and the average Sri Lankans, including those from the majority Sinhala community, on the other, who come visiting to Tamil Nadu and other south Indian States, ad infinitum, for a variety of reasons. Karunanidhi, who had earlier unwittingly called the 'TESO conference' in Chennai, in which the solitary Sri Lankan participation was that of a Sinhala political lightweight, who again pressed the idea of a 'united Sri Lanka', also exempted Sri Lankan sportsmen, whom the Jayalalithaa Government had sent packing home, alongside the attacks on Christian pilgrims and cultural troupes.

[Read More]


                 26 September 2012 | Wednesday              


Inaugural address by Honourable Mohamed Waheed Deen, Vice President of the Republic of Maldives at the Fifth meeting of the SAARC Minister of Interior / Home

[Read More]


Nasheed cannot leave country without notifying the court

Some media has reported that the Hulhumale’ Court has issued a court order barring former President Mohamed Nasheed without notifying the court in relation to the case of the illegal detention of Criminal Court Chief Judge Abdullah Mohamed. Hinnavaru constituency MP Ibrahim Mohamed Salih of opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) told Miadhu Daily that he has received similar information but he has no additional information regarding the matter.

[Read More]


US support to Maldives increased with President’s speech- Govt

Press Secretary Abbas Adil Riza has said that the support of the United States of America to the Maldives has increased with the speech of the President on rule of law. In an interview to Miadhu Daily, Abbas said that a country like US’s sudden interest in meeting the President Dr. Mohamed Waheed after his address at the United Nations General Assembly High Level Segment on the Rule of Law shows that the US accepts and supports the works of small states like Maldives to uphold democracy and constitutional rule.

[Read More]


Alliance of parties urges all to participate in the movement to reclaim Airport

The alliance of political parties who established the “Reclaiming Maldivian Airport to Maldivians” movement has urged all people to participate in their activities to reclaim Ibrahim Nasir International Airport. The parties announced that they will be initiating their activities under this movement on Thursday night.

[Read More]


Development of human resources vital for national progress- Shiyam

Meedhoo constituency MP Ahmed Shiyam Mohamed has said that the development of human resources is vital for national progress. MP Shiyam made this remark at the inauguration of Ha Atoll School Cadets. He said that development of human resources is vital for national progress; it forms the base from which flow the skills and talents needed to develop the nation. He said that it is, therefore, essential that this valuable resource of a nation is constantly updated, nourished and primed to meet the growing development challenges. In this regard, Shiyam said that knowledge and skills should be instilled in the students at a young age to develop and nurture them to build their carrier and future. Shiyam also underscored the importance of rehabilitating children with bad upbringing and making them beneficial children of the nation. He said that the parents and the teachers should be watchful over their children so they do not go astray.


STO opens new service center

The State Trading Organisation (STO) has opened a new service center in a colourful ceremony held yesterday. The new service center was inaugurated by STO’s Managing Director Shahid Ali. STO board members, top officials and suppliers also participated in the inauguration ceremony. The new service center will enable STO to react faster to customers’ needs, after sales services and meet the steady increase of customer demands. STO informed that all after sales services will be given free of charge to all customers with the inauguration of the new service center. The new facility will offer repair services to Philips, Makita and Hitachi goods even sold in STO outlets in the islands. STO informed that the staff and technicians are professionally trained by the respective brands. The company also added that the products under STO main brands are covered by warranty.


                 25 September 2012 | Tuesday              


President says that int'l organisations don’t completely subject themselves to the same standards they set for member States

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has said that the experience of the Maldives suggests that international organizations do not completely subject themselves to the same standards they set for member States. The President made this remark in his speech at the High level segment on Rule of Law, on the margins of the 67th UN General Assembly. The President said that when national leaders responsible for upholding the law act with impunity, the rule of law fails. And that the Rule of law can exist only when it is measured equally for the most powerful as well as the weakest.

[Read More]


Speech by His Excellency Dr Mohamed Waheed, President of the Republic of Maldives at the High Level Meeting on the Rule of Law

Mr President, Mr Secretary General, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates. It is a pleasure and an honour to stand before you today, representing my nation, in advocacy of a principle, that we hold dear.

[Read More]


No information received on any terrorist groups – Immigration

Department of Immigration and Emigration has stated that they have received no information on any terrorist groups immigrating to Maldives. Controller of Immigration and Emigration Dr. Mohamed Ali told Miadhu Daily at the press conference held after the meeting between South Asian Immigration Controllers in Bandos Island yesterday that no terrorist groups have entered Maldives in his watch but however it is known that Taliban representatives came to hold a meeting during the former government. He said that they were able to enter Maldives only with the permission of the former government.

[Read More]


Nasheed is the biggest threat to Tourism Industry- Adeeb

Minister of Tourism Ahmed Adeeb has said that the former President Mohamed Nasheed is the biggest threat to the tourism industry of the Maldives. Noting that former President Nasheed has been campaigning against the tourism industry of Maldives locally and internationally, Minister Adeeb said that the main objective of the Ministry since his appointment as the Minister has been to recover the damages done to the industry by the former government and making the tourism plans of the government successful.

[Read More]


Corruption case filed at ACC against PG

A case of corruption against the Prosecutor General has been filed at the Anti Corruption Commission. Prosecutor General Ahmed Muizz has been accused of trying to take advantage of his authority and for trying to cause undue influence. The case was submitted to the Anti Corruption Commission on September 23.

[Read More]


Qasim is ready to work for the development of women – Dr.Didi

President of Jumhooree party Dr. Ibrahim Didi has said that the Chairman of JP is ready to help in the all ways to improve the development of women in the country. While speaking at a meeting to activate the women’s league of JP, Dr. Didi said JP is a party which always gives priority to improve the well being and progress of women of the country.

[Read More]


Will support the government if it is to take airport back – DRP
DRP has said that they will support the government’s decision to take back Ibrahim Nasir International Airport from GMR. Council member and member of Mathiveri constituency Mr. Hussein Mohamed said DRP will not go against the government if the government decides to take back airport from GMR. But DRP always want every work to be done through the right path and by using the legal forms .

[Read More]


Government cannot tell not to prosecute Nasheed – Dr. Jameel

Home Minister Dr. Mohamed Jameel has said that the government cannot inform on any grounds on not prosecuting former President Mohamed Nasheed . He said in a response to the former Foreign Minister Dr. Ahmed Shaheed’s comment on the former President. Dr. Shaheed said that Maldives cannot be removed from CMAG agenda unless all the cases against Nasheed is removed.

[Read More]


Thirty year rule proves that Gayoom is not a vengeful leader- PPM
The Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM) has stated that the thirty year rule of the former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom is a proof that he is not a vengeful leader who seeks revenge. The interim Vice President of PPM and Fonadhoo constituency MP AbdurRaheem Abdullah said that former President Gayoom is a virtuous leader who does not seek revenge.

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“The country should now move ahead following the CoNI report” UNSG Ban Ki Moon

The UN Secretary General, Ban Ki Moon has noted that now that the transfer of power has been accepted nationally and internationally as constitutional through the very credible process of the CONI, the country should now move ahead to meet the challenges. The UNSG made his remarks in his meeting today with the President of the Republic of Maldives, Mohamed Waheed Hassan.

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Training Programme for Building Modern and Effective Labour Inspection Systems held
To improve the quality of life and working conditions of more than 173,000 workers in Maldives, the ILO Project on Promoting Fundamental Rights and Strengthening Labour Market Governance in the Maldives in association with the Ministry of Human Resources, Youth and Sports (MHRYS) is organizing a 6 day training workshop from 22-29 September 2012 in the Labour Relations Authority

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Indian assistance to the Maldives
Indian Government yesterday approved the amendments in terms of the Standby Credit Facility extended to the Maldives in 2011 to provide budgetary support of USD 25 million to the Indian Ocean island country. The Union Cabinet took this decision at its meeting. "India had signed an agreement with Maldives in November, 2011 to extend a Standby Credit Facility of USD 100 million to it. As per the terms of the agreement, USD 50 million was earmarked for imports from India and the other USD 50 million was to be utilized for budgetary support by the Maldives government," an official said. The Cabinet also approved the amendment to increase the amount of budgetary support to the Maldives to USD 75 million. The amount earmarked for imports from India also stands revised to USD 25 million. (PTI)


China gets land in Maldives to construct embassy
China has been allotted a plot in the heart of the Maldivian capital to open its embassy. Chinese embassy currently works out from a rented complex and the plot has been allotted to it to construct its own building. The plot with a land area of 3,920 square feet at Majeedhee Magu near the National Stadium is a stone’s throw away from the Indian High Commission. China had opened its embassy in November last year in a rented building belonging to the family of former Maldivian President Mohamed Nasheed. China had then said that it was opening an embassy since ties with the Maldives had grown steadily. Interestingly Chinese tourists constitute the largest chunk of annual visitors to the island chain’s pristine beaches. India also has got a land to develop diplomatic mission in Maldives..


Save up to £465 on Maldives dive trip
Divers are being offered the chance to dive with mantas in the Maldives for less. Guests of Scuba Tours Worldwide can save up to £465 per person on the Manta Specials programme this October onboard the Sea Queen and Sea Spirit liveaboards. Seven nights with all diving, food, soft drinks, water and international flights start from £1,813 per person, including departure taxes. There is also the option to upgrade to a 12-night trip for £735 extra.

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Maldives Private Island Villas | Where Pillows, Soap and Danger Meet
Located Southwest of Sri Lanka, the private island of Dhonakulhi is the site of some majorlyluxurious villas. Dhonakulhi boasts the first marina in the chain of islands it is a part of. But of course, whoever is wealthy enough to afford their own island should by all means be able to purchase their own marina. In addition to the marina, the resort treats its guests like royalty, down to the smallest detail.

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                 24 September 2012 | Monday              


Might not be able to give wages and subsidies if budget support is not facilitated- Finance Minister

Minister of Finance Abdullah Jihad has said that if the budget support is not facilitated then there might be difficulties in granting some of the subsidies and wages of the employees. Speaking at the meeting of the Finance Committee of the Peoples’ Majlis yesterday, Minister Jihad said that the government has not been facilitated with any loans except the 300 million Ruffiya loan from Bank of Maldives from the 2 billion Ruffiya loans that the government should get as budget support. He said that because of this the state is facing a lot of financial problems in managing the expenditures of the state.

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Govt is concerned over Nasheed’s statements in UK regarding terrorism- Abbas

Press Secretary Abbas Adil Riza has said that the government is very concerned over former President Mohamed Nasheed’s statement in UK regarding his suspicions of imminent terrorist plots in the Maldives. Abbas said that this is a matter of national security and it is alarming that Nasheed did not inform Maldives Police Service regarding such plots.

[Read More]


Naladhu Maldive
Elegant Naladhu boutique hotel in the Maldives' South Male Atoll offers just 19 intimate beach houses set between a lagoon and the sea. Luxurious living spaces spill over into the outdoors, with each room boasting its own private pool, romantic semi-outdoor bath and shower. Dive, snorkel or swim in pristine turquoise waters, dine on the sand, or just sink into the warm embrace of the spa. Naladhu is on Velighandu Huraa in the South Malé Atoll of the Maldives, a bounty of long sandy beaches and undisturbed privacy. From the Malé International Airport, your House Master will guide you to the Naladhu launch. The ride to Naladhu involves about 30 minutes of being awed by the beauty of the Maldives' famed islands.

[Read More]


Gayoom’s return to power would see him seeking to settle the scores of the past- Thasmeen

Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) Leader Ahmed Thasmeen Ali has said that the former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s return to power would see him seeking to settle the scores of the past rather than address the serious issues of the present and the future. Thasmeen made this remark in his blog post entitled ‘The State of the Nation.’ In the blog post he also criticized former President Mohamed Nasheed.

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New islands to be leased for resort development

Maldives Promotion House – Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture has identified 14 virgin islands to be leased for resort development. According to Minister Ahmed Adeeb they have surveyed and identified 14 islands from seven atolls. The new islands will be open for bidders in the next month under the Third Tourism Master Plan. Ministry of Tourism will release the bidding criteria very soon and highest bidder from open bidding will be awarded the island.

[Read More]


Insulting Islam, its Prophet and Muslims
Politically motivated sadistic conspiracy

This is sheer sadism in the name of "Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity." This is how one could describe French Weekly Charlie Hebdo ridiculing Islam’s beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in its cartoon on 19 Wednesday 2012. That can the Muslims who cherish moral principles and family values expect from a society whose first ladies pose naked in magazines?

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Reviling The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him)
Allah, The Most Exalted, says "We have not sent thee(Muhammad peace be upon him) Except as a Mercy to the Worlds." (Qur’an:Surah 21 Aayat 107). Humanity, both Muslims and Non-Muslims bear testimony to the excellent character of the Noble and Last Messenger of Allah Ta’ala (peace be upon him). It is tragic that every now and then, biased and offensive works against Islam and Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) are circulated in the media. In addition to the recent provocative anti-Prophet film, a satirical French magazine published new cartoons mocking Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him). It is a repeated scenario: the same messages of enmity, hate and antagonism are being recycled again and again.

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                 23 September 2012 | Sunday              


The railways minister said he would kill the film-maker himself
Millions of Muslims salute Pakistani Minister
Pakistan PM Condemns $100k Islam Film Bounty

The Pakistani government has condemned a minister's offer of $100,000 for anyone who kills the maker of a controversial film that mocks the Prophet Mohammed. The country's railways minister invited the Taliban and al Qaeda to help kill the filmmaker behind Innocence of Muslims, which sparked violent protests around the world. Ghulam Ahmed Bilour told reporters in the northwestern city of Peshawar: "I announce today that this blasphemer who has abused the holy prophet, if somebody will kill him, I will give that person a prize of $100,000. "I also invite Taliban and al Qaeda brothers to be partners in this noble deed.

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Maldives cannot move forward without eliminating corruption- Gasim

Jumhooree Party Leader Gasim Ibrahim has said that the Maldives cannot move forward without eliminating corruption. Gasim made this statement at the two day workshop held at Sun Island Resort which was organized by the Women’s League of the Jumhooree Party. Gasim said that Jumhooree Party has the capability to fight corruption. He stressed that corruption is rampant in the country and it is damaging the country’s future.

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Govt will not make any deals with Nasheed- Abbas

Press Secretary Abbas Adil Riza has said that the government will not make any deals with the former President Mohamed Nasheed to remove Maldives from the agenda of Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) or any other matter.In view of former Foreign Minister Dr. Ahmed Shaheed’s claim that Maldives can only be removed from the agenda of CMAG only after fulfilling certain conditions, Abbas said that he is not aware of any such conditions. He said that regardless of any such conditions he said that the government will not make any discussions on refraining from prosecuting any criminal charges against the former President Mohamed Nasheed or a member of the Peoples’ Majlis.

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Nasheed’s tour to UK is to destroy the Maldivian tourism industry – Adeeb

Minister of Tourism Ahmed Adeeb has said that the main aim of the former President Mohamed Nasheed’s tour to the UK is to destroy the reputation of the tourism industry of the Maldives. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Adheeb said that he believes that some of the UK based newpapers’s accusations of terrorism in the Maldives against tourists were based on the fabrications and lies of the former President Nasheed under his plots to destroy the tourism industry. He said that such reports apparently campaign for Nasheed and this exposes the people behind such articles.

[Read More]


Maldives Destination Guide for iPhone released

Maldives Promotion House – iPhone users may be excited about the recent release of iPhone 5 and iOS 6 . Here is another good news for iPhone and iPad users planning to visit Maldives. Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation (MMPRC) has released Maldives Destination Guide application for iPhones and iPads. This application is now available for download from AppStore for free. This application holds all the information from the printed version of Maldives destination guide. It includes information about the environment, climate, and history and culture. This simple and easy way to access listings of all Maldives hotels, resorts, liveaboards, restaurant and cafes. This App also enables to mark your favorite resorts, hotels and liveaboards. MMPRC is also planing to release the application for Android and BlackBerry users very soon. Here is the link to download from iPhone App Store.


Climate scientists put predictions to the test

Climate-prediction models show skills in forecasting climate trends over time spans of greater than 30 years and at the geographical scale of continents, but they deteriorate when applied to shorter time frames and smaller geographical regions, a new study has found. Published in the Journal of Geophysical Research-Atmospheres, the study is one of the first to systematically address a longstanding, fundamental question asked not only by climate scientists and weather forecasters, but the public as well: How good are Earth system models at predicting the surface air temperature trend at different geographical and time scales?

[Read More]


                 22 September 2012 | Saturday              


Decision on airport will be taken when the right time comes – Dr.Waheed

President Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik has said that the decision on the agreement between the government and Ibrahim Nasir International Airport operator GMR,will be taken when the right time comes. Speaking before leaving to New York to participate in the United Nations General Assembly on friday, Dr. Waheed said he will take the decision for the benefit of the people. He said he did not say a word to any parties involved in this case and he is looking and hearing what everyone saying very carefully.

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Problem on Hajj quota will solved soon – Dr.Waheed

President Dr.Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik has said that the problem on Hajj quota will be solved very soon. He said every year this problem is faced by all the countries. But despite of this the Saudi Arabian government will help in giving extra 500 people’s quota to the Maldivian government. According to information received to raajjenews, Islamic Minister Dr.Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saud is working effortlessly on getting the quota and President Waheed himself is personally working on solving the problem.

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Actress files lawsuit against Producer of anti-Islamic film
- Egypt’s PG seeks arrest of 7 people tied to the film

Actress Cindy Lee Garcia has sued the maker of "Innocence of Muslims," saying he misrepresented the intent of the film that sparked anger around the globe for its negative depiction of the noble Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The actress requested the Los Angeles Supreme Court for a temporary restraining order against YouTube and Google regarding the distribution of a film trailer. Garcia says she and her family have received death threats and her career damaged since the 14-minute trailer for "Innocence of Muslims" surfaced.

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Cabinet has said No to sell Liquor in inhabited islands.

Cabinet advises to revoke former govt’s decision to divide Fuvahmulah in to 3 administrative zones  Ministry of Tourism presents names of 14 islands to be developed in to tourist resorts. The cabinet yesterdayday advised President Dr Mohamed Waheed to revoke the decision made by former President Mohamed Nasheed by decree, to divide Fuvahmulah in to three separate administrative zones. Former President Mr. Mohamed nasheed has divided many Inhabited Islands in to different parts and given them different names although land is in the island just simply to allow selling liquer in the inhabited islands so this is clear NO to allow selling liquer in Inhabited Islands. Although in Maldives selling of liquer is banned in the inhabited islands, all the tourist have many bars selling liquer, and is freely available to tourists.

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Decision on the GMR issue should be made after completing all the legal phases-Thasmeen

Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party Leader Thasmeen Ali has said that the government should complete all the legal phases regarding the issue of the agreement of the former government with the GMR before making a final decision on the matter. Thasmeen said that the government should annul an agreement signed by the government only through the courts of law. He said that the country might face a lot of consequences if the decision is made through any other means. Thasmeen noted that to claim that an agreement is false and void is not a solution to the problem. He said that the validity of the agreement can only be determined by the court.

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MMPRC holds a roadshow in Japan

Maldives Promotion House – The Maldives Marketing & PR Corporation (MMPRC) together with the tourism industry successfully completed a road show in major two cities, Fukuoka and Osaka in Japan on Sunday 9th September 2012. Over 90 different Japanese tour operators participated in this road show. The main objective of holding a road show is to maintain consistency is Japanese tourist arrivals to Maldives and to share information about Maldives with the Japanese press and tour operators.

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                 20 September 2012 | Thursday              


DRP called for President’s resignation because they do not love the nation- Thaufeeg

President Dr. Mohamed Waheed’s Political Advisor, Ahmed Thaufeeg has said that the Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) called for the resignation of the President with regards to the GMR issue was because they do not love the nation. In view of the President’s request for the political parties to make a decision regarding the GMR issue, DRP Council member Ali Azim recently said that Maldives has a presidential system of government and in a Presidential System of government the President and his cabinet has the authority to annul the agreement of the former government with the GMR Infrastructure to lease Male’ International Airport to GMR. He said that if the President does not have capability to make his own decision regarding the matter than he should resign.

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Thaufeeq appointed as President of President’s office social club

Ahmed Thaufeeq, Political Advisor to President Dr.Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik has been appointed as the President of the office’s social club. He was appointed as to the post by 99 % votes. Speaking to Miadhu news, Ahmed Thaufeeq(Topi) said that he always wanted to serve the country and its people in social ways. And in this opportunity he will work to the wellbeing of the staff of the President’s office. He also said that he will discuss on ways to improve social issues with the staff of the office and will work to make it real.


EU Ambassador calls on the President

Ambassador of the European Union to the Maldives, Mr Bernard Savage has paid a courtesy call on President Dr Mohamed Waheed this afternoon. At the meeting held at the President’s Office, the President briefed the Ambassador on the current political and economic status of the country. The President also highlighted the political reform needed in the country, and the steps being taken by the government in overcoming the economic challenges faced in the Maldives. Ambassador Savage assured President Waheed that the European Union would continue to extend its assistance and support to the Maldives.


Vice President launches the Maldives Climate Change Trust Fund

Vice President Mohamed Waheed Deen has said that neglecting to address the environmental challenges of today would mean that there would be no tomorrow. The Vice President made this remark while speaking at the launching of the Maldives Climate Change Trust Fund.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Vice President said that today’s younger generation must be told clearly, that protecting our environment is also protecting our future. “I understand that this is a project to build a future for our younger generation, and educate them to move in the right direction of planning to use the environment in a more economically sustainable perspective”.

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Government prohibits viewing and import of the anti-Islam film to the Maldives.

Natioanl Bureau of Classification Bureau has prohibited the viewing of the anti-Islam film to the Maldives produced by US film maker Sam Bacile. The 14 minute anti-Islam film "Innocence of Muslims" was prohibited at a time when the Islamic Ministry had asked the Communication Authority to request Google to block the YouTube video in Maldives.The National Bureau of Classification said in a statement that it condemns the film very strictly and viewing and distribution of the film is prohibited item under the law. The bureau stated that any production of art which promotes anti-Islamic views containing mockery and blasphemy is prohibited of use, sale and viewing or distribution. The statement said that the enemies of Islam have always tried to insult Prophet Mohamed by using all the means they could use. And said to have restraint during these periods. It also appealed the citizens to pray for the prophet.


MoU signed between HDC and Turkey’s Bora to build 1153 flats

An agreement has been signed between Hulhumale Development Coperation HDC and Turkey’s Bora Company to build 1153 flats in Hulhumale. At the ceremony to sign the project, the Managing Director of Bora Company Mr. Alpa E Suri said that Bora company has several projects like this in different countries and his company decided to build flats in Maldives to the betterment of the people of the country and his company. He also said Maldives is situatued in a different geological way and because of that it is not so easy to have bigger projects. Bora company started its survey on the project last May and Mr.Suri said they got immense support and co-operation from President Dr. Waheed and his government. He also said that HDC also gave their full cooperation for them to handle the project. Under the agreement, 35 blocks of flats have to to be built with 10 – 12 storey buildings. And the project is to be completed within 2 years.


Foreign countries doesn’t believe initial information about the new government – Dr.Hassan Saeed

Advisor to the President Dr. Hassan Saeed has said that foreign countries doesn’t believe on the initial information about the new government of Maldives. Speaking to Miadhu news Dr. Hassan said that Chairman of UK-Maldives all parliamentary group Mr.Davis Ames met President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik recently. And he said that after the meeting with the President he got all cleared about the bad impression he got about the Dr. Waheed’s government. He also said after the briefings, Mr.Ames now immensely supports the new government. Mr. Ames has invited a Maldivian delegation to UK and he had several topics to discuss with the President and he has requested for a second appointment with the President. Dr.Hassan said some are still working hard to degrade the government by travelling around the world, but it is a waste and today nobody will believe what the opposition is speaking.


If DRP wants to call for President’s resignation they should leave the govt- DQP

Dhivehi Qaumee Party (DQP) has called Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) to leave the government if they want to call for the resignation of the President. DQP made this statement in view of the recent call for the resignation of President Dr. Mohamed Waheed by DRP Council member Ali Azim. Speaking to Vnews, Vice President of the DQP, Riyaz Rasheed said that it is ridiculous for the DRP to call for the resignation of the President while they remain in the government. He said that the political parties of the national unity government condemns this call and considers it a very lowly act.

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CCTF projects worth USD 8.5 million launched
The Government of Maldives (GOM), the World Bank, European Union (EU) and the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID) have together launched projects under the umbrella of the Maldives Climate Change Trust Fund (CCTF) yesterday. The Projects were launched by the Vice President Mohamed Waheed Deen. The Minister of Environment and Energy Dr Mariyam Shakeela, the Minister of Fisheries and Agriculture Ahmed Shafeeu, senior officials from the donor agencies, and senior officials from the government and resort sector as well as from relevant Atoll and Island Councils participated in the event.

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Maldivian Air Taxi to start scheduled seaplane flights
Maldives Promotion House – Maldivian Air Taxi (MAT) has signed a memorandum of understanding with the government of Maldives to start scheduled seaplane flights to the local islands. At a special ceremony Minister of Transport & Communication, Dr. Ahmed Shamheed signed the MOU on behalf of the government and Lars Erik Nielson, Chairman of Maldivian Air Taxi signed the MOU. Government have been discussing with MAT for a while and now they have agreed for to start the scheduled flights. Government agreed to waive navigation and concession charges. They also discussed on other concessions. “Very soon people living in remote corners of the country will start enjoying the flights. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr. Nielson for his personal efforts” Said Dr. Shamheed.

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LOUIS VUITTON MOËT HENNESSY TO OPEN MALDIVES RESORT
Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy LVMH will open a resort hotel in the Maldives in 2013. The resort will consist of 46 luxury villas and the property is currently under construction on the island of Randheli in Noonu Atoll. “Maldives has (also) become the birthplace of tourism innovation,” Maleeh Jamal, deputy minister of tourism, arts and culture told the e-daily. This announcement adds to a growing list of internationally renowned names in fashion with luxury hotels in their portfolios. Earlier this month, Bulgari Hotels & Resorts announced plans to open a brand-new hotel in Shanghai in 2015 while the Missoni brand of hotels are planning to build more properties in Oman, Turkey, Brazil and Mauritius over the next few years.

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As China Rises, India Intensifies Ties with Maldives
During a high level meeting on Sunday in the Maldivian capital of Malé, India and the Republic of Maldives agreed to measures that will see the intensification of their defense and security cooperation. Indian defense minister A.K. Antony met with his Maldivian counterpart Mohamed Nazim, where both nations pledged to create a united front to battle the challenges presented by terrorists and nonstate actors. The main areas in which India and the Maldives will increase their cooperation include regional counterterrorism, antipiracy and maritime security in the Indian Ocean. “Maldives will stand side by side with India to ensure that maritime security of Indian Ocean is ensured, that the stability in the region is maintained and above all, that the threats that our two countries face, particularly from terrorist groups and other nonstate actors are eliminated,” said Nazim.

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                 19 September 2012 | Wednesday              


We are initiating a project to provide housing for all- Dr. Muizz

Minister of Housing and Infrastructure Dr. Muizz has said that one of the policies of the government is to provide housing for all. He said that the agreement signed with Turkey’s Bora company is the initiation of this mega project of the government. Dr. Muizz made this remark speaking at the ceremony held at Traders Hotel to sign the agreement between Bora Insaat Sanayi ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi and Housing Development Corporation to develop 14 plots of land as mixed condominiums in Hulhumalé.

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Aim of JP is to bring social and economic progress to the country – Qasim

Leader of Jumhooree party Qasim Ibrahim has said that the main aim of his party is to bring social and economic progress to the country and the people of the country are appreciating the work of JP. He said this while speaking at the signing ceremony of PK youths of Male, to Jumhooree party . The signing ceremony was held at the main office of JP. He said that youths want to participate in sports and if there is no sports for them they will be no progress to the youths of the country. And to spend on them on sports, the country’s economy should be in a stable condition.

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No tape can be pasted if we talk the right thing

Member of the Meedhoo constituency Ahmed Shiyam has said that with the help of the almighty, no one can get succeeded in pasting tape on the mouth, if we talk the right. While answering a question from Miadhu news about finding a bottle of alcohol in Mr. Shiyam’s luggage, while it was screened at the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport on his return from a trip to Male. He said nobody will believe that a person who has been involved in resort business for such a longtime and the owner of the biggest resort of the Maldives will bring a bottle which is only for $8 for his purpose. He also said that he had been travelling all the time and he has gone out of the country for more than 2000 times and in these years not a single case like this has been arised.

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Education brought up by muslim scholars have to be brought back again – Shaheem

Minister of Islamic Affairs, Sheik Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that education and work brought up by muslim scholars have to be brought back again. He said this while speaking at the ceremony to hand over students who got scholarships from the Zakaath fund and from government’s revolving scheme . 489 got the scholarships from Zakaath fund and 1000 students got scholarships from the help of government loan fund.

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Islamic Ummah will grow stronger in face of the challenges against Muslim unity- Sheikh Shaheem

Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that the Prophet of Islam is from the main pillars of the unity of Muslims and whenever the enemies of Islam attack the Muslim unity the Islamic Ummah will grow stronger. Sheikh Shaheem said this at the lectures organized by the Ministry of Islamic Affairs in defence of the Prophet (peace be upon him).

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Thasmeen’s talks regarding GMR issue are lies- Govt

The government has accused the leader of Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) Ahmed Thasmeen Ali of lying regarding the issue of annulling the agreement of the government with GMR. Press Secretary Abbas Adil Riza said that Thasmeen’s claim that the President Dr. Mohamed Waheed has decided on the GMR agreement issue is false and baseless. Abbas said that the letter sent by the President to the political parties regarding the issue is not a letter sent to inform them of his decision but was sent to inform them of the details of the costs on the GMR project and the harms to the state because of it. He said that the President sent this letter at the request of the political parties during his meeting with them on September 13.

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                 18 September 2012 | Tuesday              


Businessmen paying less in alms due to lack of laws protecting alms system- Sheikh Shaheem

Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has said that businessmen have been paying less in alms due to their being no law to protect the alms system. Minister Shaheem made this statement at the ceremony held Sunday night at Islamic center hall to inaugurate the higher education loan scheme to financially assist students and to award the recipients of the higher education scholarships under the alms fund.

[Read More]


The first military hospital of the country ‘Senehiya’ is opened

The first military hospital of Maldives ‘Senehiya’ was inaugurated yesterday. The hospital was opened by the visiting Defemce Minister of India Mr.A.K Antony. After inaugurating the hospital, Mr.Antony said that Indian medical staffs will always work at the hospital and India will help in upgrading the hospital. Mr. Antony said Indian government helped in making the hospital by giving 2 crore Indian rupees and 2 doctors and 4 paramedical staff will be working in the hospital. And he said in the coming years they will send more doctors and paramedical staffs.

[Read More]


JP condemns the film, which denigrates Prophet
Jumhooree party has condemned the release of the low-budget, crudely produced film called "Innocence of Muslims," which portrays Muhammad as a fraud, a womanizer and a child molester. In a statement released by JP, the statement said that no true believers of the muslim community will accept the film and this is an act done purposely to outrage the muslims around the world. In the statement it said that this is a moment by which all the muslims have to show their true behavior and faith to the non believers. And it is the time to think with wisdom on how the hatreds can be defeated. More than two billion people have already requested youtube to remove the film.


Case against 3 judges who looked into Nexbiz project proposed to ACC
A case against the 3 judges who looked into the Nexbiz project has been proposed to ACC. In the case the 3 judges Dr.Ahmed Abdullah Didi, Abdullah Saeed and Mohamed Abdullah had taken bribes of 2 million dollars in order to take decision favouring all the matters related to Nexbiz. The un named case proposed to ACC had written that the deal was made with the judges by the former Chairman of Transport Authority AbduRasheed Nafiz and former Immigration Controller Ilyas Hussein at President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik’s residence , Hilaaleege. It said that with the influence of Abdullah Saeed, they were trying to end all the cases against Nexbiz within 2 weeks.


Processing complaints against judges by others could interfere with the freedom of the judges- Chief Judge

Chief Justice Ahmed Faiz has said that the processing of complaints against judges by other than the Judicial Service Commission could interfere with the freedom of the judges granted by the constitution. The chief judge stated this in a letter addressed to the President of the Judicial Service Commission. In the letter Chief Justice Faiz noted that the processing of complaints against judges is a constitutional responsibility of the Judicial Service Commission and not other institutions.He said that if the complaints against the judges are allowed to be processed by other institutions and not the judicial service commission then this might lead for some groups to take advantage of this and misuse issues related to the courts of law. The Chief Judge underscored the importance of taking the necessary actions against those trying to defame judges and the courts of law. He said that this is the only way to maintain the trust of the people in the judiciary.


President underscores importance of Women in maintaining the natural beauty of Maldives

President Dr. Mohamed Waheed has said Maldivian women have played a very significant role in maintaining the natural beauty of the Maldives. The President made these remarks while speaking after laying the foundation of the waste management centre in Maamendhoo of Gaafu Alifu Atoll established by Mohamed Ali Janaah. President Dr. Waheed said that the women exert a lot of effort to keep the islands clean. He said that it is from the tradition of the Maldivian women to gather themselves and clean the island. He said that it is because of this the islands of Maldives remain beautiful and clean.

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New Australian Ambassador presents credentials to the President

New Ambassador of Australia accredited to the Maldives, Robyn Mudie presented her letter of credence to President Dr Mohamed Waheed yesterday morning. At the ceremony held at the President’s Office to present the credentials, the President congratulated Ambassador Mudie, and welcomed her to the Maldives. Meeting the new Ambassador afterwards, the President noted that Australia has always been a good friend of the Maldives, and reiterated Maldives’ full commitment to strengthening the good relations between the two countries. President Waheed expressed his gratitude to the Australian government for their continuous support to the Maldives in all areas of need, particularly in the area of education. At the meeting, Ambassador Mudie expressed her confidence that the bilateral relations between the Maldives and Australia would flourish in the future, and assured of Australia’s continuous assistance and cooperation.


President Waheed inaugurates Four Higher Education Scholarship Schemes

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has called on all those in the education sector to work towards reinforcing the education system in the Maldives. The President made this appeal while speaking at the inauguration of the higher education scholarship scheme of the Ministry of Education. Speaking at the function held at the Islamic Center Sunday evening, the President expressed his concerns over those working in the education sector leaving their jobs. Noting that those might not be the highest paying jobs, the President emphasized that there was no greater contribution that could be made in building the country, other than serving to strengthen the education system.

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Chairman of UK-Maldives all parliamentary group calls on the President

The Chairman of the UK-Maldives all parliamentary group Mr David Amess has paid a courtesy call on President Dr Mohamed Waheed yesterday morning. At the meeting held at the President’s Office, the President highlighted the political history of the Maldives, and briefed on the political environment of the last three years. At the meeting, Amess spoke on the importance of upholding democratic values.


Indian Defence Minister meets with President Dr.Waheed

Visit ing Indian Defence Minister Hon. A.K Antony made a courtesy call on the Commander-in-Chief and President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik. At the meeting at Presidents Office, President Waheed and Minister Antony noted the close bilateral defence relations between the two countries and discussed about strengthening defence ties to improve security of both nations. President also conveyed his gratitude for the continued support and assistance by India to the Maldives. Indian Defence Minister noted that Maldives has always been a close friend to India and discussed the defence areas in which India may provide assistance. The meeting was joined by Vice President Mohamed Waheed Deen. After meeting with thePresident, Indian Defence Minister met with the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Mrs. Dhunya Maumoon at Bandos Island Resort this morning. At this meeting Minister Anthony discussed about strengthening defence relations between the two countries. Indian Defence Minister concluded the three day official visit and returned to India this afternoon.


                 17 September 2012 | Monday              


Scholarships awarded to 1489 recipients
President underscores the importance of investing on education

President Dr. Mohamed Waheed has underscored the importance of investing in education for the development and progress of the country. The President made this remark at the ceremony held last night to inaugurate the higher education loan scheme to financially assist students and to award the recipients of the higher education scholarships under the alms fund.

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Government to provide every under 18 with higher studies or to make skilled people

President Dr.Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik has told that the government is to start a programme on giving higher studies and skills to all the students who are under 18. He told this while speaking at the official programme to mark the country’s youth day. He told the government plans this to be as a policy. He told the government plans that each and every student who are under 18 to study up to A level or to learn atleat some constructive work before they come to job market. And we can achieve this by increasing institutions and centres which can provide A level studies. And to have courses of various levels for those who cannot complete there A levels.

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Govt is spreading false information about ACC regarding GMR issue- ACC

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has rebutted that the statement of the government that a decision cannot be made regarding the GMR issue up until ACC concludes their investigation of the case. In an interview to VTV, President of ACC Hassan Luthfee said that the claims of some of the top officials of the government that ACC is procrastinating the investigation of the GMR issue is totally baseless and false. Luthfee said that ACC is currently investigating three cases related to GMR and one of them is nearly finished. He said that the cases are complicated and needs a lot of time. Noting that the commission is receiving full cooperation in the investigations, Luthfee said that he requests details of cases concluded by ACC and sent for prosecution as they have not been informed of such details.


Maldivian courts of law holds jurisdiction over all those subject to laws of Maldives- Supreme Court
The Supreme Court gives assurances that the jurisdiction of the courts will be held over all those who are subject to the Constitution and the laws of the Maldives. Supreme Court made this statement in view of the temporary court order of Singapore’s High Court that no trial of the GMR agreement can be held in Maldivian courts of law until the Airport Development Charge (ADC) case filed at Singapore’s Arbitration Court by GMR is concluded. In the statement released by the Supreme Court stated that no foreign courts of law has the authority to interfere with the trials in Maldivian courts of law when there is no legal obstacle that hinders the courts from holding jurisdiction over an agreement that was made in Maldives which makes it subject to the constitution and laws of Maldives. The Supreme Court added that such an interference is also against the “Principle of Sovereign Equality, Principle of Non–Intervention within domestic jurisdiction and principle of self determination rights” which are stipulated in UN charter.


Minister Nazim expresses hopes to open services of Military Hospital to general population

Minister of Defence and National Security Colonel (Retd) Mohamed Nazim has expressed hopes to open the services of the Military Hospital to the general population. Speaking at the inaugurated Military Hospital, the Minister said furthermore that he is confident that this hospital will rank among the best in the Maldives, in terms of the quality of the health care it provides as well as the friendliness of the staff. Also, while currently the services of the hospital are limited to members of Maldives National Defence Force and Maldives Police Service as well as their families, in the future the doors of this hospital will be open to members of Department of Immigration and Emigration and Maldives Customs Service as well as the general population.

[Read More]


President and First Lady attend Ozone Day functions
President Dr Mohamed Waheed and First Lady Madam Ilham Hussain attended the function held this afternoon to commemorate this year’s Ozone Day. The event which was held at the Republic Square this afternoon began with 25 school children swimming from the island of Funadhoo to the Official Jetty of Male’. Following the swimming event, some recreational activities were held at the Republic Square. The President and the First Lady visited some informative stalls setup at the function. The Ozone Secretariat conferred a commemorative plaque to the Maldives on the occasion of this year’s Ozone Day. The plaque was received by the President. President Dr Mohamed Waheed presented certificates to the students who took part in the swimming event held yesterday. He also awarded certificates and prizes to the winners of the Ozone Day essay competition held among school children.


Dinner hosted in honor of Indian Defense Minister
A dinner has been hosted by the High Commissioner of India to Maldives D.M Muley in honor of the visiting Indian Defense Minister Hon. A.K Anthony. The dinner was joined by Minister of Defense and National Security Colonel (Ret) Mohamed Nazim, Chief of Defense Force Major General Ahmed Shiyam, Vice Chief of Defense Force Brigadier General Ahmed Mohamed, Ministers of Government, Members of Parliament, Senior Officers of MNDF and officials from Indian High Commission.


Indian Defence Minister meets with Minister Nazim

Visiting Indian Defence Minister A.K Antony has met with Minister of Defence and National Security Colonel (Retd) Mohamed Nazim.
Indian Defence Minister was awarded a guard of honor by Maldives National Defence Force upon his arrival at Republic Square. After inspection of the guard of honor the visiting Minister walked to MNDF Headquarters ‘Bandaara Koshi’ alongwith with the traditional Maldivian, “Beru dhummaari Thaalhafili” escort.

[Read More]


                 15 September 2012 | Saturday              


Defence Minister to Head this year’s Maldivian Hajj pilgrims

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has appointed Minister of Defence and National Security Colonel (Rtd) Mohamed Nazim as the Head of this year’s Maldivian Hajj pilgrims.


President Waheed meets the people of Thinadhoo

President Dr Mohamed Waheed called on everyone to work together for the country, without regard to personal views or beliefs. The President made this appeal while addressing the people of Thinadhoo of Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, as part of his current visit to the island. Noting that the State would be able to provide its services to the people with the cooperation from Island Councils and Atoll Councils, the President said that the projects planned for Thinadhoo could be smoothly carried out with the support from the leaders of the island. Speaking in this regard, the President expressed his hopes for the developmental schemes planned for Thinadhoo to be carried out as planned during the next year, and called upon the members of the Thinadhoo Island Council to work with the government in achieving those goals. In his speech, the President said that the government provides its public services to the whole population of the island, and to prevent the government from carrying out its responsibilities out of anger towards the government or the President would be unreasonable. During his visit to the Island of Thinadhoo, President Waheed also inaugurated the drinking water treatment plantation in Thinadhoo.


President Waheed inaugurates Institute for Security and Law Enforcement Studies

President Dr Mohamed Waheed expressed his hopes that the starting of undergraduate and graduate courses for law enforcement personnel would facilitate the Maldivian security forces to be among the most professional law enforcement personnel in any country. The President made this remark while speaking at the inauguration of the Institute for Security and Law Enforcement Studies, which would be administered by the Maldives Police Service. After the official inauguration of the institute, the President also launched the official website of the institute.

[Read More]


American diplomats paid the price with their lives for Israeli Jewish film producer’s crime
By Latheef Farook

The United States Ambassador in Libya J Christopher Stevens, together with three other US citizens, all employees of US consulate in the Libyan city Benghazi, had paid the price for a crime committed by an American- Israeli Jewish film maker Sam Bacile. Stevens, a career diplomat who assumed office as U.S. ambassador to Libya last May had previously worked in Libya including Benghazi during last year’s uprising.

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The Maldives will be the site of a LVMH hotel in 2013
Luxury giant Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy (LVMH) will open a resort hotel in the Maldives in 2013, TTG Asia daily reported Wednesday. The resort will consist of 46 luxury villas and the property is currently under construction on the island of Randheli in Noonu Atoll. "Maldives has (also) become the birthplace of tourism innovation," Maleeh Jamal, deputy minister of tourism, arts and culture told the e-daily. This announcement adds to a growing list of internationally renowned names in fashion with luxury hotels in their portfolios. Earlier this month, Bulgari Hotels & Resorts announced plans to open a brand-new hotel in Shanghai in 2015 while the Missoni brand of hotels are planning to build more properties in Oman, Turkey, Brazil and Mauritius over the next few years.

[Read More]


                 14 September 2012 | Friday              


Islamic Affairs Ministry condemns US-produced movie ridiculing Prophet Muhammad

The Islamic Affairs Ministry has strongly condemned the US-produced movie which has insulted and ridiculed Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him). The Ministry in a statement issued yesterday denounced the movie, co-scripted and directed by Israeli Jewish Sam Bacile, as being grievously heinous. Islamic Affairs Ministry stressed that the movie, deliberately maligning the best of Mankind and the most distinguished of the Messengers, Muhammad (Peace be upon him), the likes of whose nobility, honor, justice, and manners the earth has never known of. The Ministry also cautioned the people reacting to the movie emotionally. They added the people should be patient and indulge making prayers for the prophet and following his traditions.


Those accountable for Airport leasing issue to be sued

Prosecutor General Aishath Azima Shukoor has said that the state has decided to institute legal action against the party responsible and accountable for the issue of leasing Ibrahim Nasir International Airport since the leasing of the airport was not conducted in the best interest of the country. Attorney General Azima made this remark at the press conference held at President’s Office yesterday afternoon. She said that the ministers of the former administration concluded many decisions related to the matter without considering the consequences of the agreement on the Maldivian economy. She added that they did not even consider the law and the rights of the Maldivian people when they made the agreement.

[Read More]


Education will help reduce crime- President

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has said that proper education will help reduce crime in the society. The President made this remark while speaking at the inauguration of the Institute for Security and Law Enforcement Studies, which would be administered by the Maldives Police Service. After the official inauguration of the institute, the President also launched the official website of the institute.

[Read More]


President will not have to order individual officers ever again- Nazim

Minister of Defence and National Security Mohamed Nazim has said that the person in the post of the President will not have to order individual officers ever again with the launch of the Maldives first ever National Security Policy and Defence Policy. The minister made this remark while speaking at the official function held Wednesday morning at Islamic Centre, to launch the National Defense and National Protection Policies. He said that he is now assured that the events witnessed on February 7 will not repeat again in the country.

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Maldives stamps down on ‘indecent’ dancing
The Maldives on Thursday moved to limit dancing in public between men and women, an official and a report said, amid signs of the growing influence of the nation's hardline religious party. The Islamic affairs ministry sent a circular "to all government institutions banning the holding of any mixed-gender dance events", the private Minivan newspaper said, quoting guidelines issued today. The ministry also ordered a ban on events where adolescent girls were required to dance, the report said, adding that the directives were intended for both state bodies and individual citizens.

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As Chinese influence looms, Antony to visit Maldives
New Delhi : Defence Minister A.K. Antony Saturday heads to Male on a three-day visit during which he will inaugurate a military hospital and a training academy for Maldivian forces -- key initiatives against the backdrop of the growing influence of China in the atoll country. Antony, who last visited the Maldives in 2009, has been invited by Maldivian Defence Minister Col. Mohamed Nazim. This is the first ministerial visit from India since the Feb 7 regime change in the Maldives. Antony will participate in the inauguration of a military hospital and also the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the training academy of the Maldivian National Defence Forces, said officials of the defence ministry. Enhanced military exchanges, anti-piracy cooperation and maritime security are among key issues that will be discussed between the two sides, reliable sources said.

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Govt coalition parties will decide on GMR issue- Azima

State Attorney General Azima Shukoor has said that the government coalition political parties will decide on the issue of the agreement made between the former government and GMR infrastructure to maintain and operate Ibrahim Nasir International Airport. Attorney General Azima made this remark at the press conference held at President’s Office yesterday afternoon. She said that the Ministerial Committee established to review the agreement made by the former government with GMR noted that are issues in the agreement and it does not benefit the Maldives.

[Read More]


Saturday, 15 Sep to be a working day at Govt offices
As announced by the government earlier, Saturday, 15 September, will be a working day at government offices. The decision was taken after the 22 and 23 August were declared as public holidays, to extend the weekend to link-up with the Eid holidays. The 1 September was also a government working day.


Govt Condemns the Attacks on the US Embassy in Cairo and the US Consulate in Benghazi
The Government of Maldives condemned the attacks on the US Embassy in Cairo and the US Consulate in Benghazi in the strongest terms and pledged Maldives full support to the Government and the people of the United States. In a message send to US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton by the Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdul Samad Abdullah said, “It was with deep shock and horror that I learnt of the attacks on the US Embassy in Cairo and the US Consulate in Benghazi which has caused loss of innocent lives including those of US diplomats working in the Consulate, and injury to many others.” Foreign Minister in his message extended the profound sympathy of the Maldives to the Secretary of State, the Government and the people of the United States and also conveyed sincere condolences to the members of the bereaved families.


LVMH to open Maldives resort in 2013

[Read More]


                 12 September 2012 | Wednesday              


MDP decides to temporarily withdraw from Leaders’ Dialogue
- Second meeting of the Leaders’ Dialogue scheduled for today

 

Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) National Steering Committeerday has decided yesterday to temporarily withdraw the MDP from Leaders’ Dialogue. A statement released by MDP says that the decision was not in any way intended to refrain from the discussions as the party always supports and encourages the principles of dialogue. Also MDP is a party that will always support and welcome discussions.

[Read More]


President Waheed lays foundation for 3 institutions in Maamendhoo

President Dr Mohamed Waheed yesterday laid the foundations for a mosque, water plant and waste management centre in Maamendhoo of Gaafu Alifu Atoll. Addressing the people of Maamendhoo following the foundation laying ceremonies, the President highlighted the need to adapt to a new system of waste management and recycle waste products as much as possible. Speaking in this regard, the President said that it was important to treat and manage non-biodegradables properly, and said that it could also be used for power generation.

[Read More]


People are concerned regarding the presence of MDP activists in govt offices- Yameen
Mulaku constituency MP Abdullah Yameen has said that the people are raising concern regarding the presence of the activists of opposition Maldivian Democratic Party’s (MDP) in high level posts of the government offices. Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM)’s parliamentary group leader Yameen made this remark meeting the press during PPM’s tour to some of the islands of Ha and Hdh. He said that the people have complained that MDP is still ruling the government with their political activists in top posts of some of the government offices. Yameen noted that in the in the three year rule of former president Mohamed Nasheed top level posts of the different government offices were granted to activists of MDP who are not capable for those posts. Yameen stressed that the PPM will do whatever it can to resolve the issues raised by the people. He added that the people do not want the activists of opposition of MDP to remain in offices such as the different Health Corporations. Moreover, Yameen said that he would raise the concerns of the people to the government and hold discussions among the parties of the government coalition to resolve these issues.


Convicted impeder fined
Criminal Court ruled against a man on 4th September for impeding police duty. The person who was found guilty for impeding police duty is Zaid Usman of Anbugasdhoshuge / Th thimarafushi. As per witness testimonies, Zaid was found guilty for impeding police duty, by pushing and scattering police barricades that were used to block the roads near Traders Hotel on 6th March 2012. The Court verdict Zaid Usamn guilty for impeding police duty based on testimonies of eye witnesses, under the Article 72 of Police Act, and fined for Mrf 3000 under Article 75 of the same Act, as it was his first criminal offense where he was found guilty, which has to be compensated within one month from the day of verdict.


Police arrest four in a prostitution bust
Police raided a beauty saloon and takes four people under custody in suspicion to prostitution. Police took a local male aged 30 and three Thailand foreign female laborers of aged 21, 24 and 36 under custody last night. Police also took the owner who is a local 65 year old man under custody for questioning. Based on information received by police of prostitution, Police raided the massage parlor and busted these four suspects at “Sondor Bon Beauty Care & Saloon” located in H. Philadelphia. Police seized several apparatus related to prostitution, MVR 68,000 and USD200 at that place. Sondor Bon Beauty Care & Saloon was closed on 2nd May 2012 for a similar prostitution bust.


Japan slams brakes on $63 billion in spending
Japan said Friday it would delay 5.0 trillion yen ($63 billion) in spending as the government faces a severe cash crunch that could see it run out of money within months. Officials warned there would not be enough money to cover its expenses as political gridlock ties up passage of a bond-issuance bill needed to help pay for some 40 percent of Tokyo's spending in the fiscal year to March.

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Trouble on Thamburudhoo
"It has to be stopped," said Occy succinctly, talking with a small group of local Maldivian surfers. "They can't develop this place, it can't happen." "Places like this, we need them, " reiterated Tom Curren. "They can't be closed to surfers, they can't be closed to anybody. How can you close the ocean?" Former ASP world champions Martin Potter and Damien Hardman shared similar sentiments while participating in the recent Four Seasons event in the Maldives. The situation on the ground, or the atoll, as the case may be, is that currently the Maldive's Ministry of Defense are in negotiations with an American development company, Telos Investment, to build a resort on the island of Thanburudhoo, home to two of the northern Maldives best waves; a right-hand point/reef called Sultan's Point and a left named Honkey's. The concern of the Maldive Surfing Association (MSA) is that the island's develop, which was once a training ground for the military, would in essence privatize the two prized breaks.

[Read More]


Weekly Japan anti-nuclear rally going strong
Thousands of anti-nuclear demonstrators returned to Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda's executive mansion in central Tokyo Friday for a weekly rally. The gathering, organised on Facebook and Twitter, has been held every Friday since late March and gathered momentum after Noda approved the restart of two nuclear reactors in western Japan in June.

[Read More]


                 11 September 2012 | Tuesday              


Developing more airports is crucial for growth of our tourism industry-President

President Dr Mohamed Waheed has said that developing airports in different regions of the Maldives was crucial for the growth of our tourism industry. The President made this remark while officially opening Gaafu Alifu Kooddoo Airport. The Airport was officially opened with the unveiling of the name board of Kooddoo Airport by the President. On arrival, the President’s flight was greeted with a water salute. Following the inauguration of the airport, a welcome item was performed by the students of Gaafu Alifu Atoll Education Centre.

[Read More]


Peoples needs cannot be fulfilled in a disunited society- Shahid

Speaker of the Peoples Majlis Abdullah Shahid has said that if the Maldivian people are politically disunited their needs cannot be fully achieved. Speaker Shahid made this remark speaking at a public rally of Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) at Shaviyani Atoll Kanditheemu. He said that there is a lot of issues to be rectified such as in the Educational Sector and Health Sector. Shahid noted that there are complaints raised regarding the lack of Doctors and medical facilities even under the Aasandha Health Scheme. The Speaker said that social justice can be established only by uniting the people. Underscoring the importance of unity he said that DRP’s main aim is to achieve this. He added that it is for this reason that the members of DRP are still united as one. DRP leader Ahmed Thasmeen Ali also gave an address to the members of DRP during the event. He criticized the former government for releasing dangerous convicts to the society thereby causing many social problems.


President assures he would stop at nothing to bring about development for the country

President Dr Mohamed Waheed reiterated that he had his sleeves rolled up to do everything possible for the growth and development of the country. The President made this remark at the opening ceremony of the Vilingili Resource Recovery and Waste Management Centre yesterday afternoon. In his speech, the President said that in the last seven months he had put in every effort to ensure uninterrupted public services were provided to the people, and to carry out all the planned projects. The President noted that however, some projects that were not in line with the constitution had be halted.

[Read More]


Political discord is the main challenge against nation’s development- Janaah

Chairman of KHA Resort and Hotels Mohamed Ali Janaah has said that political discord that is now rampant in Maldives today is the main challenge and obstruction against the development of the country. Janaah said this at the inauguration ceremony of the airport at Ga. Kooddoo, constructed by Singapore’s Bonavista Private Limited. He said that the country cannot progress and develop with its people divided and upon disunity. Janaah stressed that the nation can only be developed with the sincere hard work of the people united upon this aim. He added that it is important that the government grants opportunities to develop the country to capable companies. Janaah said that he had aspired to open a resort in North Huvadhoo Atoll five years back. He said that he faced the challenge of the lack of an airport in the atoll. He noted that today with hard work a resort and an airport are developed in the Atoll. Janaah urged the people of the Atoll to make the best of this great opportunity to increase their income. He said that another resort with 177 beds will be developed in the near future.


Hotel Asia Exhibition and Culinary Challenge 2012 inaugurated
Hotel Asia Exhibition and Culinary Challenge 2012, an event to promote food and beverages, and other supplies for the hotel industry in Maldives, have been inaugurated yesterday at Dharubaaruge. While this is the 11th consecutive year and the seventh edition of the event, it is one of the single largest event in the Maldives that showcases food, drink, foodservice, hospitality and hotel equipment. This year’s event includes international exhibitors from countries India, Sri Lanka, Singapore, China and also from Maldives. Total of 150 booths are on display.

[Read More]


Additional US$ 25 million fiscal support from India to Maldives

During the visit of Prime Minister of India Dr. Manmohan Singh to Maldives in November 2011, the Government of the Republic of India and Government of the Republic of Maldives signed an agreement wherein the Indian government agreed to extend a US$ 100 million credit facility to Maldives to be operated through the State Bank of India.

[Read More]


President Waheed opens The Residence Maldives

President Dr Mohamed Waheed today opened The Residence Maldives resort in Falhumaafushi of Gaafu Alifu Atoll. Speaking at the opening ceremony, the President congratulated Bonavista Maldives Pvt Ltd, and expressed his gratitude to the company for all their contribution to the development of Maldives. The President said that Bonavista Maldives’ decision to develop a resort in the Maldives was evident of the trust they had placed in the country, and assured that the Maldives would always provide its support to the company in every way. President Waheed also expressed his gratitude to the company for the construction of Kooddoo Airport, noting that it was a huge contribution to the development of Gaafu Alifu atoll.


Urgent need to revisit Centre-State relations
N Sathiya Moorthy

With now four episodes in as many weeks, it is time now for a revisit of the constitutional provisions on the Centre-State relations as possibly never before. These events and episodes pertain not just to division of powers between the Union and the constituent States, but also to their respective responsibilities and relative obligations for enforcing those responsibilities and obligations, reflecting the letter, intent and spirit of the Constitution.

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                 9 September 2012 | Sunday              


No excuse to keep the Maldives in CMAG's agenda- President

President Dr. Mohamed Waheed has said he does not believe that there is any excuse for the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) to keep Maldives in the agenda of CMAG. The President made this remark speaking to the media following his arrival at the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport yesterday evening concluding his official visit to China. He said that the investigative report of the Commission of National Inquiry (CoNI) had answered all questions surrounding the transfer of power on February 7.

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Gan Airport’s 51% cannot be privatized for 100 Ruffiya- Dr. Shamheed

Transport Minister Dr. Shamheed has said that 51% of the Gan International Airport cannot be privatized for 100 Ruffiya. Speaking to Miadhu Daily, Dr. Shamheed said that the Gan International Airport is even currently worth an investment of 200 million US dollars and 51 percent of 200 million US dollars can be leased for only 6 million dollars. He said that the Ministry will never agree with such an agreement.

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We have no secret deals with GMR- JP

Jumhooree Party has stated that the Jumhooree Party and the party leader Gasim Ibrahim has no secret deals with the GMR and in a Jumhooree Party government there will be no GMR in the Maldives. Jumhooree Party also said that the party leader Gasim Ibrahim considers the agreement between GMR and the government to have many flaws and is not in the best interest of the country. The party added that they still respect the agreement of the coalition of parties against the GMR agreement.

[Read More]


ACC has no mandate to obstruct government projects- President

President Dr. Mohamed Waheed has said that the Anti Corruption Commission (ACC) has no mandate to obstruct ongoing projects of the government. The President made this remark speaking to the media following his arrival at the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport yesterday evening concluding his official visit to China. President Dr. Waheed said that he does not believe that the ACC have the authority to terminate or suspend any ongoing projects of the government. He said that the job of the ACC is to investigate corruption. The President also said that the recent verdict of the Supreme Court does not lower the legal authority of the commission. He said that some judges have affirmed that it is not in the authority of the commission to halt ongoing projects of the government and also that the Supreme Court’s decision does not diminish the legal power of the ACC.


Leasing Gan Airport for 99 years will destroy the future of Addu- Gasim

Jumhooree Party Leader, Gasim Ibrahim has said that the leasing of Addu International Airport for a period of 99 years will destroy the future of the people of Addu City. He said that the Jumhooree Party will never support such an irresponsible decision. Gasim said that Addu International Airport located in Gan is among the only two international airports in the Maldives and therefore linked to the development and future of the Addu City.

[Read More]


Research reveals contrasting consequences of a warmer Earth
A new study, by scientists from the Universities of York, Glasgow and Leeds, involving analysis of fossil and geological records going back 540 million years, suggests that biodiversity on Earth generally increases as the planet warms. But the research says that the increase in biodiversity depends on the evolution of new species over millions of years, and is normally accompanied by extinctions of existing species. The researchers suggest that present trends of increasing temperature are unlikely to boost global biodiversity in the short term because of the long timescales necessary for new forms to evolve. Instead, the speed of current change is expected to cause diversity loss.

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Visit to India was in relation to changes in Indian regulations: Dr. Shamheed

-Indian govt was given assurance that foreign investors will not be treated unjustly . Minister of Transport Dr. Ahmed Shamheed has revealed that his recent visit to India was to hold discussions with the Indian government to seek a solution to any problems faced by Maldivian vessels entering Indian harbor due to the changes in the regulations. The Minister noted that some media outlets have been deliberately spreading false information about his visit although the reason for the visit is known.

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GMR has not suspended credit facility to us- Villa Air

Managing Director of Villa Air, Ridwan Shareef has denied the news spread in some of the media that GMR has suspended credit facility to Villa Air due to outstanding bills. Ridwan Shareef said that those who are spreading such false news are doing so to achieve some sinister motive. He said that no one who is aware of business will ever spread such false news.

[Read More]


Dusit International celebrates grand opening of Dusit Thani Maldives

Dusit International has yesterday celebrated the grand opening of its milestone property, the Dusit Thani Maldives in a ceremony that saw President Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik and First Lady, Madam Illham Hussain, as guests of honour. Also in attendance was the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Ahmed Adeeb Abdul Ghafoor.

[Read More]


Foreign laborers arrested for brewing liquor
Maldives Police Services has arrested three foreign laborers working in male’ for brewing liquor. Three Indian male laborers of aged 24, 46 and 48 were arrested at M. Kundige during an operation carried out by the Drug Enforcement Department of Maldives Police Services, based on information received about brewing home-made liquor in M.Kundige. Police entered the room in M. Kundige, under court order and arrested the 24 year old man and the 48 year old man, red-handed. Police found two 20 liter plastic drum and a can of homemade liquor with brewing apparatus in the room. The 46 year old man was arrested in another room of the same house. Police seized homemade liquor stored in a five liter ‘Life’ brand water bottle.
Drug Enforcement Department is further investigating this case.


Two arrested with 11 bullets of suspected drugs
Police had taken two people under custody, a man of 30 years old man and a 26 year old woman, with 11 bullets of suspected drugs in N. Velidhoo. They were seized during an operation carried out by N. Velidhoo Police Station, based on information received that two people were carrying drugs on a boat from Male’ to N.Velidhoo. Bullets of suspected drugs were found inside a bag, near N. Velidhoo Council Office, thrown by the 30 year old man, while they were being escorted to N. Velidhoo Police Station. N. Velidhoo Police Station is further investigating this case.


                 8 September 2012 | Saturday              


Nasheed’s Orders were unlawful: Police Integrity Commission
Action should be taken against for Nasheed’s unlawful Orders.

Police protest at Republic Square is justified demands- PIC. Nasheed issued unlawful order to withdraw police from artificial beach. Police Integrity Commission (PIC) has concluded that the demands of the policemen who assembled at the Republic Square from 6th February evening until 7th February morning calling for the Commissioner of Police to give them assurance in person that he will not issue unlawful orders and to reassure them that no action will be taken against them for the incidents that took place on the 6th February evening are justified demands in view of how the events unfolded. The Police Integrity Commission revealed this in a report on the findings and conclusions of the investigation conducted by the commission to determine whether the Police breached any law during the incidents on 6th and 7th February 2012 that led to the change of regime in the Maldives.

[Read More]


US Presidential Elections is not held at Usfasgandu- Alhan

Feydhoo constituency MP Alhan Fahmy has said that one of the most developed country in the world, United States of America is currently holding their Presidential Elections and they are not holding it by camping at Usfasgandu. Alhan Fahmy made this remark at the ceremony held at M. Kunooz to inaugurate the campaign of the Presidential candidate of Jumhooree Party. He said that when a man’s return back to the state of a toddler, then such a person will be considered to be a mad man. Likewise, he said that the democracy that was brought to Maldives after much sacrifice and hardwork is now not at its infant stage so today everything should be carried out democratically. Alhan said that causing unrest in the streets by using democracy as a guise will only bring harm and difficulty for the people. He said that the people now do not believe that it is democracy to consider the most shameless person to be regarded as the most democratic leader.

[Read More]


Islamic Ministry and City Council discusses on Male’ Mosque renovations and repairmen

Ministry of Islamic Affairs and Male’ City Council has held discussions on the maintenance, renovations and repairment of mosques in Male’ City. Miadhu Daily was informed that Male’ City Mayor and other top officials of Male’ City Council participated in the discussions held at the Ministry of Islamic Affairs. According to sources, the discussions were held in a very friendly environment. Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed assured the Male’ City Council that the ministry will cooperate with the council in the maintenance of the mosques. Male’ City Council also stated that they will support the ministry in this and will offer any assistance that the ministry needs in the maintenance of mosques. Ministry of Islamic Affairs has decided to grant 1 million Ruffiya to the City Council to renovate and repair the mosques in Male’ City.


Karen Merrick Joins Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives as GM

Karen Merrick has been appointed as General Manager of Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa Maldives. Ms. Merrick, a British national from Scotland, has almost 25 years' experience in the hospitality industry throughout the UK. For the last 7 years she has been working overseas in resort operations within Maldives, Indonesia and Malaysia. Prior to joining Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa, Ms. Merrick was General Manager of The Taaras Beach & Spa Resort, Redang Island, Malaysia. Centara Ras Fushi Resort & Spa set on Giraavaru Island in North Male Atoll is just 15 minutes by speedboat from Male International Airport.

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MNDF personnel to participate Iranian Armed Forces’ Quran Competition
MNDF has received an opportunity to participate in a Quran reciting competition to be held by the Iranian Armed Forces. The competition would be held at Tehran, the capital of Iran. In the competition that is held to commemorate the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) birthday, the two soldiers who are participating are Lieutenant Abdul Majeed Ibrahim and Corporal Ahmed Naidh. The categories of this completion include reciting 30 Chapters of the Quran by heart, reciting 15 Chapters of the Quran by heart, reciting 5 Chapters of the Quran by heart, Qirath and Research of Quran. MNDF was provided the opportunity to send one participant to each category. In this competition, Lieutenant Abdul Majeed has participated in the category of reciting 15 Chapter of the Quran by heart while Corporal Ahmed Nahidh has participated in the category of reciting 5 Chapters of the Quran by heart.


Two storey Mosque to be built in Hulhumale’

Minister of Islamic Affairs Sheikh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed has revealed that a private company has requested for the permission to build a two storey mosque in Hulhumale’ Minister Sheikh Shaheem said that more than 900 worshippers will be able to worship in the two storey mosque to be built in Hulhumale’. Minister said that the mosque is expected to be completed and opened in the month of Ramadan next year. He said that the mosque is to be established in the Dhiraagu area of Hulhumale’.


India, Maldives discuss aviation cooperation

(traveldailymedia.com): India and Maldives are looking at enhancing cooperation in the civil aviation sector, including increasing air links between Indian cities and Male. A delegation led by Maldives Minister of Transport and Communication, Ahmed Shamheed met India’s Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ajit Singh in New Delhi yesterday. The two ministers discussed way forward to strengthen airport infrastructure at Male International Airport.

[Read More]


Dhiraagu Launches Online Bill Payment Service

Dhiraagu has introduced online bill payment service with customer account management facility via Dhiraagu website. This new service will greatly enrich user experience for both individual and business customers. The online bill payment and account management services provide Dhiraagu customers a secure, easy and an efficient way to gain greater flexibility over the payment of their monthly mobile postpaid, fixed line and internet bills. To use this service, customers will have to simply register online by clicking the ‘My Account’ link on Dhiraagu website. With this introduction customers can have their online payment delivered promptly, securely and on time in just a few clicks. There are no additional monthly subscription charges or payment commission for Dhiraagu online bill payment service. Customers having a Visa, MasterCard or American Express credit or debit card can make the online payment.

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                 5 September 2012 | Wednesday              


President meets with local business community in Shanghai

President Dr Mohamed Waheed this evening met with the local business community in Shanghai, as part of his current visit to China. The meeting, which was attended by Chairmen and CEOs of 13 leading companies, was held at the Shanghai State Guesthouse. Speaking about the investment opportunities in the various sectors, the President noted the importance of developing properties in the Maldives targeting Chinese tourists. He also said that investors were always welcome in the Maldives. The meeting was attended by Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Mr Ahmed Adheeb Abdul Ghafoor and Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Abdul Samad Abdulla.


MDP should stop all harassment if they are sincere- Adhaalath

Adhaalath Party has called the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) to stop harassing the people and not to cause unrest in the country if they are sincere and also asked MDP to discipline themselves first if they even dream to join the government. Sheikh Imran said, in any society discipline is the most important pillar to develop the society and MDP has killed the discipline of the Maldivian community for almost 8 years now and its impact is too bad for the Maldivian society. Also he said Killing the discipline is a planned agenda by MDP due to pressure of anti Islamic Activists who are Mr. Nasheed’s closest partners

[Read More]


DRP will not support President Dr. Waheed in the Presidential Election- Thasmeen

Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) Leader Ahmed Thasmeen Ali has said that the DRP will not support President Dr. Mohamed Waheed in the Presidential Election to be held next year if the President was to contest in the election. Thasmeen made this remark answering a question posed by DhiTV. He said that DRP has already decided to contest in the 2013 Presidential Election and therefore it is not sensible to support a candidate from another party.

[Read More]


Maldives caters to more Chinese tourists than Europeans

With tourists from China overtaking those from Europe, Maldives is now focusing on how to redesign its tourist industry to host the Chinese travellers better, Maldivian President Mohammed Waheed has said. Chinese food, shopping, gaming, will no longer be difficult to find in Maldivian islands for travellers from China as it is more Chinese friendly now, Waheed currently on a visit here told the state-run China Daily.

[Read More]


Man fined for MRF 1000 for false identity
A 25 year old man who was found guilty for providing false information to a government institute was fined for Mrf 1000 by the Criminal Court. Shimthan Ali / Raihan, S Hulhudhoo provided false identification during an investigation at Maldives Police Services. Criminal Court verdict states that,Shimthan Ali / Raihan, S. Hulhudhoo admitted during the hearings thathe provided false identification about his identity as Ahmed Azheen / Bulbulaage, S Hulhudhooto Maldives Police Services when summoned in suspicion to a robbery terrorized with knife at a labor quarter at H. Sosunge, and he was found guilty for providing false identification to a government institute. The verdict also states that Shimthan Ali / Raihan, S. Hulhudhoo has admitted providing false information to a government institute, and is fined for MVR 1000 as a penalty as this is his first criminal offense, to be compensated within 7 days of the verdict to Criminal Court, charged under Article 63 of Criminal Act and endorsed by Article 62 of the same Act.


An Impeder and two assaulters fined
Criminal Court ruled against two people impeding police duty and a person for assaulting a police officer yesterday. They are Ahmed Nadeem of H. Sea speed, Ali Shihan of Ha Thuraakunu Roashaneege and Mohamed Rifau of N. Velidhoo Marvelous. Ahmed Nadeem of H. Sea speed was fined for attacking an on duty police officer trying to control unrest near Nalahiya Hotel on 5th March 2012. Nadhim pushed that officer on chest and kicked on the back when the officer tried to walk away. The court verdicts Ahmed Nadheem guilty, for assaulting a police officer on duty, under the Article 73 of Police Act, and fined for Mrf 5000 under Article 75 of the same Act as it was his first criminal offense where he was found guilty, which has to be compensated within one month from the day of verdict.

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Police powers, policing the powers
The post-war ethnic discourse in Sri Lanka has often been interspersed with election campaigns of one kind or the other. It was so during much of the era of ‘Eelam War-IV’, but the battle bugles had suppressed the electoral loud-hailer. Today, poll campaigns have taken the place of those bugles, putting stake-holders on the defensive. They are forced to look introverts in electoral terms, and not extroverts in political terms. This puts the nation on the election mode near-eternally, and often away from the ethnic-solution mode.

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India-Sri Lanka ties: It has to be give-and-take, not tit-for-tat
N Sathiya Moorthy

An eye for an eye can make all persons blind - and achieve nothing. In the saga of India-Sri Lanka relations, increasing incidents of violence against ordinary Sri Lankans on the streets of Tamil Nadu has already impacted on the public perception in the island-nation. It has potential for damaging bilateral relations to levels that is seldom understood in Tamil Nadu, and appreciated as much by the Government system in New Delhi, too. Or, that again seems to be the perception in Colombo.

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New golf course opening in the Maldives

Any island resort of note usually has at least one golf course to its name, but some are better than others, valuing what an 18-hole course can do for its fortunes and prestige. Many small island nations who are worried about sinking below sea level as a consequence of global warming are thinking of innovative solutions to their problem. The Maldives is one such country, and to try and ensure that it remains a popular tourist destination for golf breaks with yourgolftravel.com, it has come up with a radical idea. In conjunction with a major architectural firm, the Maldivian government are to start work on a multi-million pound floating golf course as part of a series of floating islands. As many of its islands are just five feet above sea level, the powers that be in the Maldives are trying to find ways of maintaining its status as a top destination for tourists who love to play golf with spectacular views of the Indian Ocean, soak up the sun or sample a different culture to their own.

[Read More]


Research reveals contrasting consequences of a warmer Earth
A new study, by scientists from the Universities of York, Glasgow and Leeds, involving analysis of fossil and geological records going back 540 million years, suggests that biodiversity on Earth generally increases as the planet warms. But the research says that the increase in biodiversity depends on the evolution of new species over millions of years, and is normally accompanied by extinctions of existing species.

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Coral scientists use new model to find where corals are most likely to survive climate change
Marine conservationists from the Wildlife Conservation Society working with other coral reef experts have identified heat-tolerant coral species living in locations with continuous background temperature variability as those having the best chance of surviving climate change, according to a new simplified method for measuring coral reef resilience.

[Read More]


                 4 September 2012 | Tuesday              


MDP has no opportunity to join the government- President

President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik has said that the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) or any other political party now does not have the opportunity to join the government. Informing of the decision of the President to Miadhu Daily, the government representative to all-party talks, Presidents Advisor on Political Affairs Ahmed Thaufeeq said that the President made this decision while in China. He said that this decision was made by the President himself without any influence of the political parties in the government coalition.

[Read More]


Important agreements signed between the governments of Maldives and China

Three very important agreements were signed yesterday between the governments of Maldives and China, as part of President Dr Mohamed Waheed’s current visit to China. The agreements that were signed include agreement on economic and technology cooperation between the governments of China and Maldives. The agreement was signed by the Minister of Commerce of China Mr Chen Deming, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives Dr Abdul Samad Abdulla.

[Read More]


Cannot move forward with a habitual liar as a leader- Gasim

Jumhooree Party Leader Gasim Ibrahim has said that the people cannot move forward with a habitual liar as a leader. He said that every person has to think about this and take heed of this. Gasim made this remark at the ceremony held at the party’s main office to celebrate the signing of 50 youth from Machangolhi district of capital Male’ City.

[Read More]


Official talks held between the Maldives and China

Official bilateral talks were held between the Maldives and China yesterday. The meeting was held at the State Guest Hotel in Xinjiang Province of China. At the meeting, the head of the Chinese delegation was the Premier of China Wen Jiabao, and the head of the Maldivian delegation was President Dr Mohamed Waheed. Both the Maldivian and Chinese delegations noted the long existing friendly ties between the two countries, especially that this year marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and China. The cooperation already established in trade and assistance programme between the two countries was also highlighted at the official talks. Further, the Chinese Premier assured that the Chinese government would continue to give its full assistance to the Maldives in the protection of its environment, and the development of transport, construction, and road construction sectors.


President Waheed meets Premier of China
President Dr. Mohamed Waheed has yesterday met with Wen Jiabao, Priemer of China.

At the meeting, President Waheed expressed his appreciation to Premier Wen Jiabao for the long standing close relations between the Maldives and China. He further added that as the two countries celebrate the 40thanniversary of diplomatic relations, he is confident that the relationsbetween the two countries will continue to grow from strength to strength.

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Maldives Hotel Asia 2012 will see the participation of a delegation from Sri Lanka
The Maldives Hotel Asia 2012 will see the participation of a Twenty (20) member high powered delegation from Sri Lanka from 10th to 12th September 2012 courtesy of the Sri Lanka – Maldives Bilateral Business Council of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce.

[Read More]


Two-time world champion Damien Hardman wins Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2012

Maldives Promotion House – Australian surfing legend and two-time world champion Damien ‘Dooma’ Hardman (Aus), 46, narrowly defeated three-time world champion Tom Curren (USA), 48, in the Grand Champions Final of the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2012 today.

[Read More]


R. RASMAADHOO BODUBERU GROUP DRUMS TO VICTORY
IN THE FOUR SEASONS SAQAAFE VAADHA
YOUTH BODUBERU CHALLENGE 2012

Baa Atoll, Maldives, 2 September 2012: R. Rasmaadhoo Boduberu Group, a group of 25 boduberu performers from Rasmaadhoo, have been crowned champions of the Four Seasons Saqaafee Vaadha Youth Boduberu Challenge 2012. Held at Baa Kamadhoo on August 31 and September 1 2012, the Grand Finale saw three groups of performers aged 15 to 25 years old compete across five songs and two traditional dances for a prize of MRF 100,000 to fund a community project and MRF 10,000 cash for themselves.

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FOUR SEASONS MALDIVES SURFING CHAMPIONS TROPHY 2012
Surfing Goes Five Star and Beyond

Two-time World Champion Damien Hardman Wins Grand Champions Final Three-time World Champion Tom Curren Wins Thruster Division Sunday, September 2, 2012: Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Kuda Huraa: Australian surfing legend and two-time world champion Damien ‘Dooma’  Hardman (Aus), 46, narrowly defeated three-time world champion Tom Curren (USA), 48, in the Grand Champions Final of the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy 2012 today.

[Read More]


                 3 September 2012 | Monday              


Maldives warns ousted president to halt protests
The Maldives government on Sunday accused former president Mohamed Nasheed of “seeking to inflame” unrest in the island nation and said unruly protests by his supporters would no longer be tolerated. Nasheed claimed he was forced out of power in February by a coup, but an international investigation last week concluded that he had resigned after a police and military mutiny and weeks of demonstrations against his leadership. Since his fall, supporters of Nasheed have expressed their anger at regular protests in the island capital Male and have often clashed with police.

[Read More]


Maldives: CoNI report holds power-transfer legal
N Sathiya Moorthy

The five-member Commission of National Inquiry (CoNI), attested by the international community, has found no proof to a plot or coup d'etat behind the sudden resignation of then Maldivian President Mohammed 'Anni' Nasheed on February 7. Instead, it found evidence of indiscipline in the ranks of the Maldivian National Defence Force (MNDF), whose legality could not be extended to the Maldivian Police Force (MPF), whose elements had participated in the Opposition political protests, demanding such resignation.

[Read More]


MDP REVERSED BACK:
MDP proposes to join govt coalition
Abdul latheef Adam: Editor raajjenews

Opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has reversed its position not to join present government and proposed to join the government coalition of President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik. According to media reports, opposition MDP proposed to join the government of President Dr. Waheed at the first meeting of the All-Party-Leaders-Talk which was held yesterday afternoon at Velaanaage. The government representative to all-party talks, Presidents Advisor on Political Affairs Ahmed Thaufeeq told reporters that the government welcomes the proposal of MDP but however the government will decide on the matter after further discussions with the coalition partners and President Dr. Waheed.

[Read More]


President expresses appreciation for China’s immense contributions to development of Maldives

Noting that this year marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Maldives and China, the President Dr. Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik has expressed his appreciation for China’s immense and numerous contributions to the social, cultural and economic development of Maldives. President Dr Waheed made this remark yesterday while delivering a speech at the opening ceremony of China-Eurasia Expo and China-Eurasia Economy Development and Cooperation Forum.

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Nasheed should be arrested first if anyone is to be arrested for rebellion- Civic Society Coalition

Civic Society Coalition has stated that the former President Mohamed Nasheed should be arrested first if anyone is to be arrested for rebellion. Following the claims of the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) that there was a plot or a coup d’etat behind the sudden resignation of then Maldivian President Mohammed ‘Anni’ Nasheed on February 7 and that the protests against the government will continue, Vice President of the Civic Society Coalition Abdullah Mohamed said that the five-member Commission of National Inquiry (CoNI), attested by the international community, found no proof to a coup d’etat. He said that the report of the commission exposes the unconstitutional orders and action of President Nasheed and proves that Nasheed rebelled and challenged the constitution a number of times during his presidency.

[Read More]


No vote will given to any party in govt coalition in 2013 if MDP is allowed to join govt- Fuwad

Jumhooree Party council member Fuwad Gasim has said that no vote will be given in favour of any political party in the current government’s coalition in the upcoming presidential elections in 2013 if the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) is allowed to join the government coalition. Fuwad said that the government should be aware of the many plots of MDP to save themselves from the legal actions which will be taken against them for the many illegal and criminal activities perpetrated by the MDP. He said that MDP will make many proposals now because they know that they are getting weaker in popularity and strength in Maldivian politics.

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President and First Lady arrives in Xinjiang Province of China on an official visit

President Dr Mohamed Waheed and First Lady Madam Ilham Hussain have arrived in Xinjiang Province of China yesterday evening, on an official visit. On arrival, the President and First Lady were welcomed by Deputy Governor of Xinjiang Province, and senior officials of Province Foreign Ministry. During this visit to China, President Waheed is scheduled to meet the Premier of China. Some important agreements will also be signed between the two countries, during this visit.


Government call on Former President Nasheed to respect the rule of law

The Government of Maldives has called upon President Nasheed to respect the CoNI findings and to abide by the rule of law. Speaking at a Press Conference the Defence Minister, Home Minister and Attorney General noted the unequivocal and clear findings of the CoNI which have noted that the transfer of power was legal and followed the constitution. They noted there was no room for questioning the CoNI and that all members of the Commission, except President Nasheed’s were in agreement with the findings. They also pointed out that the UN and Commonwealth observers had been impressed with the professionalism of the work and the intergrity and impartiality with which the members had carried out their duties.

[Read More]


Rasmaadhoo Wins Four Seasons Maldives Youth Culture Competition 2012
Maldives Promotion House - Rasmaadhoo Boduberu group has won the Four SeasonsZuvaanunge Saqaafee Vaadha 2013 (Four Seasons Youth Cultural competition). In the grand finale they competed with Boduberu groups from Maduvari and Meedu to win the cash prize MVR 100,000 to fund a community project.

[Read More]


Maldives to Host Travel Oscars in 2013
Maldives Promotion House – Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) has confirmed that Maldives will host World Travel Awards (WTA) Indian Ocean event in 2013. Deputy Minister of Tourism, Mohamed Maleeh Jamal said ”Maldives travel industry has won numerous accolades at WTA in the past and it gives us great pride to host event in 2013″, he added ”We are planning on details for the event venue and other details”.

[Read More]


Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru Maldives relaunched as a all pool villa resort
Maldives Promotion House - Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru, Maldives reopened today (1 September2012) after a full renovation which now features private dipping pools adjacent to jet pools in each of the resort’s 48 villas. A long-time favoured resort that attracts substantial repeat guests, Banyan Tree Vabbinfaru has consistently achieved top ratings in TripAdvisor Traveler’s Choice Awards since 2008. Following the refurbishment, guests may enjoy the luxury of their own pool and jet pool set within their villa’s private garden area.

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Twin wins for Hardman
"The gloves are off tomorrow." That was Martin Potter's response this evening after coming up short in the twin-fin division of the Four Seasons Maldives Surfing Champions Trophy. That's a scary thought, considering it would seem the gloves are always off when it comes to Pottz and surfing heats. But here we are, at Sultan's Point in the Maldives, and 20-plus years past their prime and the competitive juices are still flowing like the low tide currenty through the channel. In the first round of this unique little surf contest in the Indian Ocean Damien Hardman put it on rail and breezed to victory in the twin-fin division. But today, after the morning onshore winds settled down and the lineup cleaned up, round two, surfed on twin-fins, took to the water.

[Read More]


News Analysis: Maldives president lauds China's foreign policy
President of the Maldives Mohamed Waheed, who isscheduled to attend the China-Eurasia Expo in Urumqi in West China early this month,has lauded China for its policy of non-interference in the internal affairs of othercountries. In an interview with Xinhua, Waheed said that China, unlike other influential countries,looks at international affairs of small countries like Maldives from a unique perspective. "China is emerging as one of the superpowers now. In that sense, it will inevitably playa significant role in world affairs," Waheed said.

[Read More]


Maldives: It’s Not A Coup: CNI Submits Report – Analysis
The report submitted by Judge Selvam to President Waheed on 29th morning, declared that the change of government was “legal and constitutional” and that the events of February 6-7 were in large measure reactions to the actions of President Nasheed. Additionally, the Commission found that:

[Read More]


                 2 September 2012 | Sunday              


Maldives says China to lend it $500 million

(Reuters) - China will grant $500 million in loans to the Maldives, its president said on Friday, underscoring Beijing's growing ties with the politically troubled Indian Ocean nation. The loans will comprise "an agreement for a $150 million, primarily for infrastructure and housing projects", plus $350 million provided by China's trade-focused Eximbank, Mohamed Waheed told Reuters in an interview. He gave no further details. China has in recent years ramped up its presence in the Maldives, where it competes for influence with Asian rival India. Waheed travels to China on Friday, leaving a country hit by street protests organised by his predecessor Mohamed Nasheed, who has called on supporters and the army to oust the government by force.

[Read More]


No actions will be taken against Police and Army officers- AG
If any steps is to be taken against anyone than that will be against Nasheed- Home Minister

Attorney General Azima Shukoor has said that no actions will be taken against the officers of the Maldives Police Service and the Maldives National Defence Force following the investigative report of the Commission of National Inquiry (CoNI), released on 30 August 2012. In a press conference held at the President’s Office yesterday AG Azima Shukoor said that if the Police had done anything against the Police Act than there are institutions to investigate such matters.

[Read More]


MDP would not cease its press for early presidential polls
Nasheed accepts inquiry report

Former Maldivian president Mohamed Nasheed has accepted an inquiry report which dismissed his claims that he was ousted in a coup, but demanded early polls.  "I accept the report with Ahmed Saeed's reservations," he told reporters, referring to his nominee to the investigating panel who resigned a day before the release of the report saying the probe had ignored some vital evidence.Talking to reporters here, Nasheed said that from now on the government is constitutional and they are not traitors.

[Read More]


Most of the top leaders of MDP are radicals- Thasmeen

Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) Leader Ahmed Thasmeen Ali has said that most of the top leaders of the opposition Maldivian Democratatic Party (MDP) are political radicals. DRP Leader Thasmeen made this remark at the public rally of the party held at Imaadhudheen School on Friday night. He said that DRP will never support the radical policies of the MDP. Criticising MDP and the Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM), Thasmeen said that only radicals are leading the PPM and MDP. He said that PPM and MDP feels threatened by DRP. Thasmeen also said that the PPM and MDP are aware that the future is for DRP and the works of the party are aimed for the future. Thasmeen said that PPM and MDP are lead by two leaders who were former Presidents of the Maldives removed from power by the people. He said that both MDP and PPM’s policies are still based on emotions of a bitter past. Moreover, Thasmeen said that MDP and PPM are repeatedly speaking against DRP because they feel threatened by the DRP.


Sandhaanu Luthfee calls Nasheed to retire from politics if he is sincere

“Sandhaanu” Ibrahim Luthfee has called the former President Mohamed Nasheed to retire from politics if he sincerely wants the best for the country. Noting that Nasheed resigned from presidency on February 7 claiming that his staying in power will lead to more problems, Luthfee said that Nasheed should likewise retire from politics because his staying in the political field is creating more problems and unrest in the country.

[Read More]


Govt calls on CMAG to remove Maldives from its agenda
Following the publication of the final report by the Commission of National Inquiry (CNI) which was set up to investigate the alleged coup on February 7 against former President Mohamed Nasheed, stating that it had indeed not been a coup speaking at a press conference held at the Foreign Ministry, State Foreign Minister Dhunya Maumoon had said that “the Maldivian government is calling for the immediate removal of the country’s name from the CMAG’s agenda.”

[Read More]


President Waheed departs to China
The President Dr Mohamed Waheed this evening departed on an official trip to China, to attend the China-Euroasia Expo 2012. During this trip, the President will be accompanied by First Lady Madam Ilham Hussain. The President will deliver a speech at the opening ceremony of the expo, and also meet with the Premier of China, Wen Jiabao during his visit. Meeting the local media at the Ibrahim Nasir International Airport prior to his departure, the President said that the main purpose of this visit was to meet with the leadership of China, in order to facilitate acquiring assistance in the different areas of need for the Maldives. In this regard, the President said that work would be especially focused on marketing the Maldives’ tourism in China. President Waheed further said that the agreement for 150 million dollars from EXIM Bank of China, and the agreement for China’s grant-in-aid for the Maldives will also be signed as part of this visit. The Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Abdul Samad Abdullah will join the President in China after the NAM Summit held in Tehran, Iran.


President Waheed meets with political party leaders
It has been decided to continue the all-party talks among those parties represented in the parliament. The decision was made at the meeting President Dr Mohamed Waheed held with the leaders of political parties. At the meeting held at Bandos Island Resort this evening, discussions were held on the constitutional reforms that need to be brought. Members noted that those reforms could be brought through the parliament, and that the most important role falls on the political parties represented in the parliament. These discussions will also be moderated by the coordinator of the all-party talks Mr Ahmed Mujthaba.


Graduation ceremony held for the 4th Advance Fire Fighting Course
Graduation ceremony has been held for the 4th Advance Fire Fighting Course held at MNDF Fire and Rescue Training School. The ceremony was honored by the Inspector General of MNDF Colonel Mohamed Shareef. Advance Fire Fighting Course is aimed at teaching advance skills and knowledge to firefighters who have completed the basic fire fighting course.

[Read More]


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