AGP Executive Report

Anti-Corruption Push: President Muizzu says stolen public assets can be recovered and points to an Asset Recovery Bill, while the ACC moves money-laundering charges tied to the MMPRC scandal against MHR Trading to the Prosecutor General. Cross-Border Payments: The Maldives Monetary Authority has launched Favara–UPI instant transfers with India via BML and Maldives Islamic Bank, starting with person-to-person and planned QR person-to-merchant in phases. Banking Results: Bank of Maldives reports record first-half 2026 net profit of MVR 1.3 billion and supplied over USD 478m in foreign currency to customers. Public Finance: Government debt repayments hit USD 596.6m in the first six months, with a full-year projection of USD 836.6m. Human Trafficking Focus: Muizzu calls for vigilance against trafficking and highlights Operation Kurangi and a National Action Plan. Security & Drugs: Customs seized 2.2kg methamphetamine at Male’ Commercial Harbour; police also arrested two foreigners over 133 liquor bottles. Weather & Transport Disruptions: Met warns of rough seas and torrential rain; Ifuru Airport suspends flights for runway maintenance; MTCC says Boduthakurufaanu Magu flooding is due to unfinished pump-station works. Regional Links: Maldives and Australia discuss expanded police training; Maldives signs an air services deal with Ethiopia for fifth-freedom connectivity. Local Governance: Malé City Council backs a modern ferry terminal with motorcycle parking in front of BML HQ.

Public Safety & Crime Prevention: The government says it’s pushing a more proactive system to identify and prevent crime early, including awareness for expatriate workers and employers, plus biometric registration and upgraded digital systems. Weather Watch: A yellow alert is in place for torrential rain from Raa to Vaavu until 4:00pm Thursday, with thunderstorms and rough seas—seafarers are urged to take precautions. Drugs Bust: Maldives Customs seized 2.2 kilos of methamphetamine at Malé Commercial Port, with an estimated street value above MVR 4.4 million; no arrest details were shared. Transport & Infrastructure: Malé City Council approved plans for a modern ferry terminal with motorcycle parking in front of BML HQ, while President Muizzu says finger jetties near Izzuddin Jetty will be built to cut speedboat congestion. Tourism & Economy: Visit Maldives’ month-long campaign reportedly generated 160M impressions; BML posted MVR 1.3B net profit for H1 2026 and sold over $478M in foreign currency support. Cost of Living Politics: Opposition leader Mohamed Nasheed claims the country has “run out of dollars,” driving inflation and making even essentials harder to afford. Immigration Enforcement: Immigration detained 20 undocumented expatriates in Hulhumalé during an enforcement operation, with work continuing to validate permits. Parliament Oversight: MDP lawmaker Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) asked MTDC to clarify allegations about transferring Maguhdhuvaa’s head lease below market value.

Liveaboard Finance: Bank of Maldives launched “Liveaboard Finance” for the liveaboard tourism sector, offering vessel purchase, construction, mechanisation or renovation support, with the lowest local vessel financing rate at 9.5% per annum, up to 7-year tenors, 30% equity from operators, and USD repayments. Missing Person (Gan): A 22-year-old man reported missing from L. Gan was found on a joali on the island and is believed to be in good condition after MNDF, police and islanders searched the area. Immigration Enforcement (Hulhumalé): Maldives Immigration detained 20 undocumented expatriates during an operation at Hulhumalé Rashu Market, after inspecting 55 people, as authorities step up checks on work permits and illegal employment. Foreign Policy (MDP/Israel): MDP leader Mohamed Nasheed hit back at President Muizzu’s Independence Day remarks about MDP governments supporting Israel, saying the comments need careful scrutiny. Event Cancellation: Uber Events said the “Björn Again ABBA FOREVER” show was cancelled after last-minute venue approval was withdrawn, leaving sponsors, ticket holders and scheduled local artists affected. SAARC Push: India responded to Maldives calls for SAARC revival by saying cooperation needs goodwill, while pointing to “stymying” activities by a country in the region. Tourism Marketing: Visit Maldives reported 160 million digital impressions and 22 million video views from a month-long campaign, driving 600,000+ website sessions. Trade/Shipping: Maldives and Bangladesh discussed a direct shipping link to boost trade, alongside renewed mango gifts marking Bangladesh’s Independence Day goodwill gesture.

SAARC Revival Row: Maldives President Dr Mohamed Muizzu renewed calls to revive SAARC, but India’s MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said “everyone in South Asia is aware” which country and activities are “stymieing” cooperation, adding that regional progress needs goodwill. Tourism Update: Despite an early-year slowdown, the Maldives welcomed 1,229,419 tourists so far this year (down 4.5% vs 2025), with arrivals starting to rebound as airlines resume services. Health & Regulation: MFDA introduced tighter medicine rules, limiting retail and online sales to MFDA-authorised channels and pharmacies, with penalties for violations. Airport Upgrade: MACL opened a new passenger rest and service area at Velana International Airport Terminal 1, adding seating plus a children’s play zone and new banking services. Sports (Maldives): Ali Iman advanced to the Commonwealth Games men’s 50m freestyle S13 final after heats, as Maldives eyes medal chances. Esports & Culture: Dhiraagu Gamers’ Guild (DGG) and Zero Point ran the Rocket League Clash Series, with The Sneaky Squirrels winning the MVR 10,000 prize pool. Marine Conservation: Manta Trust and MMCP launched MantaBase, inviting visitors to upload manta ray photos to help conservation science.

Tourism Recovery: Maldives welcomed 1,229,419 tourists so far this year, down 4.5% from last year but showing signs of rebound after airlines resumed services following Middle East-related flight suspensions. Health Regulation: MFDA introduced tighter medicines rules, limiting retail and online sales, requiring pharmacy registration and licensed pharmacists, with penalties up to MVR 100,000 from 22 October. Airport Comfort: MACL opened a new passenger rest and service area at Velana International Airport Terminal 1, adding seating, a children’s play zone, and Bank of Maldives services. Diplomacy & Security: Maldives condemned drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities, reiterating solidarity with Saudi Arabia. Renewables Appointment: President Muizzu nominated Ambassador Thoriq Ibrahim for an IRENA role, pending parliamentary approval. Public Health Push: World Hepatitis Day coverage highlights the need for political will and delivery systems, noting Maldives’ triple elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B. Crime Watch: Two foreigners were arrested in Malé for allegedly selling liquor, with 17 bottles recovered. Sports Spotlight: Commonwealth Games para-swimming heats set up a medal bid for Maldives’ Ali Iman in the Men’s 50m Freestyle S13 final.

Health Diplomacy: China’s Ambassador Kong Xianhua met WHO’s Maldives representative Payden, highlighting China–Maldives health cooperation and support for the China-assisted Friendship Hospital, while WHO said it’s ready to deepen coordination with China on disease prevention, workforce and medicines supply. Tobacco Policy: Maldives President Muizzu announced a new annual National Tobacco Control Award starting next July to recognize people and civil society helping smokers quit, as part of efforts to curb nicotine use among youth. Immigration Rule: Maldives’ immigration site says entry on Israeli passports will not be granted from 15 April 2025, while tourist visas on arrival remain open for most other nationalities. Weather & Safety: MET warns heavy rain, thunderstorms and strong winds across the Maldives over the next 24 hours, with a high risk of wave surges at high tide—urging people to secure boats and moored vessels. Maritime Security: President Muizzu commissioned Australia-donated patrol vessel “Imaadhuddin” to strengthen MNDF/Coast Guard search and rescue and EEZ protection, following crew training and a long delivery voyage. Regional Trade Links: Maldives and Bangladesh held talks in Malé on a direct shipping connection to boost trade and connectivity, alongside cooperation on migration, tourism, health and the blue economy. Independence Spotlight: Maldives marked 61 years of independence, with Muizzu calling for SAARC revival through dialogue and offering mediation to break regional deadlocks.

Maritime Security & Rescue: President Mohamed Muizzu inaugurated the Maldives National Defence Force Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in Vilimalé, with UNODC coordinating and Australia supporting equipment—aimed at boosting search-and-rescue coordination for sea and air incidents. Independence Day Diplomacy: On the Maldives’ 61st Independence Day, Muizzu urged SAARC members to end differences through dialogue and said the Maldives is ready to mediate; Saudi Crown Prince’s representative Prince Mansour also attended. Bangladesh Link-Up: Maldives and Bangladesh held talks in Malé on a direct shipping connection to boost trade and connectivity, alongside cooperation on labour rights, tourism, health, and the blue economy. Weather Alert: MET warned of worsening conditions over the next 24 hours—heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds, and a high risk of wave surges during high tide. Defence Upgrade: Australia-donated patrol vessel Imaadhuddin was commissioned into service after training and a long delivery voyage. Health & Policy: World Hepatitis Day coverage highlighted that Maldives achieved triple elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B. Travel & Connectivity: Dhiraagu marked Independence Day with free data and home internet promotions.

SAARC Revival Push: President Mohamed Muizzu used the Maldives’ 61st Independence Day to call for SAARC to restart dialogue, saying the Maldives is ready to mediate and help end the bloc’s nine-year stalemate. Bangladesh Ties & Trade Links: Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman attended the celebrations and talks in Malé also discussed a proposed direct shipping link to boost bilateral trade and maritime connectivity. India Cooperation on Youth & Sports: Maldives and India signed MoUs to equip fitness and recreation centres across 42 islands, while youth and sports ministers also met to expand exchanges and training. China Media Exchanges: Chinese Ambassador Kong Xianhua met Maldives state media and journalist groups, highlighting people-to-people and media cooperation. Tourism Recognition: Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts Maldives secured multiple Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice awards, placing several resorts in the top 10% worldwide. Public Safety Case: Mumbai police arrested a Bangladeshi national at the airport over an alleged forged Indian passport, with claims he previously travelled to the Maldives. Environment & Green Growth: Maldives marked climate action with tree-planting under the “Five Million Trees Project,” with Bangladesh also reaffirming shared climate commitments.

Independence Day Diplomacy: President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu defended his “Maldives First” foreign policy, saying the Maldives maintains relations with all countries except Israel, and reiterated a steadfast stance aligned with the Palestinian cause. Public Safety & Youth: Muizzu also highlighted progress on crime, corruption and democratic reforms, while announcing new legislation to criminalize bullying and expand mental health support. Finance Watch: Deposits into the Maldives Sovereign Development Fund reached MVR 1.2 billion this year, up 9%, alongside a sharp rise in debt servicing spending. Health Upgrade: The Maldives introduced nucleic acid testing (NAT) to strengthen blood transfusion safety by detecting infections earlier. Human Rights Law: The country enacted its first organ transplant law, banning prisoners from donating organs and setting oversight and penalties for illegal organ activity. Regional Ties (India): Maldives and India signed MoUs to equip Fitness and Recreation Centres on 42 islands, while officials also discussed tourism cooperation and air connectivity. Regional Ties (Bangladesh): Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman visited as a special guest for Independence Day, meeting Muizzu and pledging deeper cooperation. Anti-Scam Cooperation: SPF and the FBI signed an MOU to deepen collaboration against scams and cyber fraud, building on a joint operation that prevented millions in losses.

Independence Day Diplomacy: President Dr Mohamed Muizzu used the 61st Independence Day to reaffirm Maldives’ commitment to OIC solidarity and unity, while also welcoming Bangladesh FM Dr Khalilur Rahman and Saudi Prince Dr Mansour bin Mutaib Al Saud, with talks focused on strengthening bilateral ties, education, and people-to-people links. Anti-Bullying Push: Muizzu says the government is drafting legislation to make bullying a criminal offence, with reporting rules, enforcement and anti-bullying education, alongside expanded mental health support. Sovereign Fund Update: Deposits into the Sovereign Development Fund have reached MVR 1.2 billion this year, up 9%, as debt servicing rises sharply. Tourism Honours: Tourism pioneers Champa Hussain Afeef and Champa Mohamed Moosa received top national honours for decades of building the resort industry. Connectivity Offers: Dhiraagu marked Independence Day with free 6GB bonus data for prepaid users and a fibre holiday promotion including a free router and setup. Health Upgrade: Maldives introduced nucleic acid testing (NAT) to improve blood transfusion safety by detecting infections earlier. Legal Reform: Maldives enacted its first organ transplant law, banning prisoners from donating organs and setting oversight and penalties.

Bangladesh–Maldives Diplomacy: Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman arrived in Malé for the Maldives’ 61st Independence Day, with President Muizzu hosting an evening tea and both sides pledging deeper cooperation in multilateral affairs, education and people-to-people links. Independence Day Outreach: Maldives FM Iruthisham Adam held a diplomatic outreach event inviting partners to invest and innovate under the “Maldives First” foreign policy. Saudi Ties: President Muizzu met Saudi Prince Dr Mansour during his Independence Day visit, thanking Saudi support including the Makkah Route Initiative. Anti-Bullying Push: Muizzu says new legislation is being drafted to criminalize bullying, with reporting rules and anti-bullying education in schools, alongside expanded mental health support. Sovereign Development Fund: SDF deposits reached MVR 1.2 billion this year, up 9%, as debt servicing rose sharply and the fund supported a USD 500m repayment earlier. Health Upgrade: Maldives introduced nucleic acid testing to strengthen blood transfusion safety by detecting infections earlier. Governance & ESG: SAFA approved an ESG Framework (Version 1) for public-sector entities across South Asia, including Maldives. Tourism Business Profile: India remains the top source of business travellers, with 55% of Indian arrivals travelling for business last year. Organ Transplant Law: Maldives enacted its first organ transplant law, banning prisoner organ donations and setting oversight bodies and penalties. Coral & Biodiversity Culture: Kandima Maldives launched an “Art for Biodiversity” exhibition for Independence Day, backed by UNDP.

Independence Day Culture: Kandima Maldives launched its on-island “Art for Biodiversity” exhibition, backed by UNDP, featuring 20+ Maldivian artists and an island-wide art trail running through the summer. Youth & Jobs: President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu said youth empowerment stays central, with education, employment, entrepreneurship and sports projects targeted for completion by early 2028, plus expanded mental health support. Business Travel Boost: A new Maldives Visitor Survey says India was the top source of business travellers last year (55%), with professionals and entrepreneurs making up 58% of arrivals. Blood Safety Upgrade: Maldives introduced nucleic acid testing (NAT) to detect HIV and hepatitis earlier, strengthening transfusion safety. Organ Transplant Law: Maldives enacted its first Human Organ Transplant Act, banning prisoner organ donations and setting up oversight bodies and penalties. Tourism & Diplomacy: Maldives and Qatar discussed expanding investment and tourism cooperation, with foreign minister meetings also reported. Resort News: Nova Maldives wrapped a Women’s Dive Day programme focused on marine conservation and women in diving. Aviation/Connectivity: Beond adjusted its Heathrow plan, adding a Saudi stopover as it explores Red Sea links to European cities.

Youth & Economy: President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu says youth empowerment stays central, pointing to education, jobs, entrepreneurship and sports projects, plus mental health support and loan schemes to back young entrepreneurs. Tourism Demand: Maldives Visitor Survey shows India is the biggest source of business travellers, with 55% of Indian arrivals travelling for business; the US is second (49%), while professionals and entrepreneurs make up 58% of visitors. Health Upgrade: Maldives introduces nucleic acid testing (NAT) to detect blood-borne infections earlier, cutting the risk of unsafe transfusions and aligning blood services with international standards. Diplomacy: Maldives FM meets Qatar’s envoy as both sides review cooperation. Regional Security: Maldives and Bangladesh reaffirm defence cooperation, including training, maritime security, and disaster response. Aviation & Connectivity: Maldivian signs an LOI for two Twin Otter Classic 300-G aircraft to strengthen inter-island links. Business Travel Growth: Tourism figures note 1,180,195 visitors so far this year, with 9,638 arriving for business. Wellness & Marine: Nova Maldives wraps Women’s Dive Day with conservation work and talks aimed at closing the gender gap in diving. International Recognition: Carne Diem Grill by Dharshan is named the only Maldivian restaurant in 50 Best Discovery 2026.

Aviation & Connectivity: Maldivian (IASL) signed an LOI with De Havilland Canada for two DHC-6 Twin Otter Classic 300-Gs, reinforcing the airline’s role in linking Malé with islands and resorts. Defence Diplomacy: Bangladesh and the Maldives reaffirmed plans to deepen defence cooperation, including training, institutional exchanges, maritime security, and disaster response. Diplomatic Moves (Qatar): President Muizzu received credentials from Qatar’s non-resident ambassador, with talks also covering economy, tourism, investment, and infrastructure. Diplomatic Moves (Broader): Muizzu also received credentials from non-resident ambassadors of the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Kosovo, Slovenia, and Somalia, plus Namibia’s new high commissioner—each meeting focused on expanding cooperation in priority sectors. Tourism & Wellness: World Wellness Weekend will run 18–20 September 2026 across 47 Maldives venues with free activities for guests and communities. Resort Updates: Grand Park Kodhipparu launched “Life in Residence,” a direct-booking offer built around its Grand Residence villa experience.

Diplomatic Updates: Maldives President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu received Qatar’s non-resident ambassador credentials, with both sides pledging to deepen cooperation on economy, tourism, investment and infrastructure. Regional Diplomacy: Muizzu also received letters of credence from new non-resident ambassadors (Dominican Republic, Cuba, Kosovo, Slovenia, Somalia) and welcomed new resident envoys from Namibia and Fiji, focusing on tourism, trade, fisheries, healthcare and climate action. Tourism & Resorts: Grand Park Kodhipparu Maldives launched “Life in Residence,” a direct-booking offer for its exclusive Grand Residence villa with butler service and a private infinity pool. Marine & Community: Villa Nautica and diveOceanus, with Finland International School, kicked off a coral restoration and citizen science programme using coral tracking for long-term monitoring. Governance & Safety: UK charity regulators are reviewing serious governance concerns involving the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme after a British teen died during an excursion; parents have filed a negligence claim against the school. Crime Watch (Maldives-linked): Three men jailed in London for a £4m crypto scam reportedly spent money on luxury travel including a trip to the Maldives.