AGP Executive Report

Climate Activism in Addu: Young Maldivians paddled kayaks to protest land reclamation cutting through protected mangrove wetlands in a UNESCO biosphere reserve, even tagging “ECOCIDE,” while other youth groups in Malé push back on plastic pollution and development damage. Reef Protection via Community Action: A Maldives social media campaign helped build support to ban parrotfish fishing in 2020, and conservation groups are now expanding sustainable fishing and marine habitat protection toward a 30% target by 2030. Marine Cleanup & Swim: Dhiraagu and Swim Maldives are hosting Rasfannu beach cleanup and social swim events on Aug 8 and Aug 15 ahead of the Dhiraagu Malé Open (Aug 21–22), with registrations extended to Aug 9. Coral Restoration for Guests: Sun Siyam Vilu Reef launched an Adopt-a-Coral programme letting guests attach live coral fragments to nursery frames for reef regeneration in South Nilandhe Atoll. Environment Policy Link: Maldives’ Environment and Climate Change minister met the Maldives ambassador to Qatar to discuss strengthening ties on shared environmental and climate priorities.

Climate Activism: Young Maldivians in Addu and Malé are taking to kayaks, cleanups, and reef work to protest land reclamation cutting through mangroves in a UNESCO biosphere reserve and to tackle plastic pollution—pushing back on slow protection as climate impacts feel immediate. Reef Protection That Works: A grassroots #FishForTomorrow push helped drive a 2020 ban on catching parrotfish, and conservation groups are now expanding sustainable fishing and seagrass protection toward protecting 30% of marine habitats by 2030. Marine Life Spotlight: Divers in Fuvahmulah recorded a rare oceanic whitetip shark breaching, later published in an international journal—another reminder of how much still happens beneath the Maldives’ surface. Community & Clean Water: Dhiraagu and Swim Maldives are hosting Rasfannu beach cleanup + social swims ahead of the Dhiraagu Malé Open, with registration extended to 9 August. Nature-Based Farming: A Palm Pest Biological Control Parasitoid Rearing Center was inaugurated in Hanimaadhoo to breed beneficial insects for eco-friendly coconut pest control. Tourism With a Reef Angle: Sun Siyam Vilu Reef launched an Adopt-a-Coral programme letting guests help attach live coral fragments to nursery frames for restoration.

Climate Activism: Young Maldivians in Addu and Malé are protesting land reclamation cutting through protected mangroves in a UNESCO biosphere reserve, while also tackling plastic pollution through cleanups and reef-focused action. Reef Protection via Community: A #FishForTomorrow push helped drive a 2020 ban on catching parrotfish, and Maldives Resilient Reefs is now expanding partnerships to protect seagrass and marine habitats. Marine Conservation at Resorts: Sun Siyam Vilu Reef launched an “Adopt-a-Coral” programme letting guests attach live coral fragments to nursery frames for reef restoration. Clean-Up & Swim: Dhiraagu and Swim Maldives are hosting Rasfannu beach cleanup + social swims ahead of the Dhiraagu Malé Open (Aug 21–22), with registration extended to Aug 9 and a new 500m team relay. Rare Wildlife Sighting: Divers in Fuvahmulah recorded a rare oceanic whitetip shark breach, later published in an international journal. Environment Governance: Parliament approved Thoriq Ibrahim as Maldives’ permanent representative to IRENA, and President Muizzu urged integrity and transparency in state spending. Agriculture & Bio-control: A palm pest biological control rearing centre in Hanimaadhoo will breed beneficial parasitoids to manage coconut pests.

Marine Conservation & Community Action: Dhiraagu and Swim Maldives are gearing up for the Dhiraagu Malé Open with Clean-Up & Social Swim events at Rasfannu on Aug 8 and Aug 15, followed by the main races Aug 21–22; registration has been extended to Aug 9, with a new 500m Team Relay joining the 1km, 500m and 250m categories. Reef Restoration: Sun Siyam Vilu Reef launched “Adopt-a-Coral,” letting guests attach live coral fragments to nursery frames in South Nilandhe Atoll, with progress updates after they return home. Agriculture & Pest Control: A Palm Pest Biological Control Parasitoid Rearing Center was inaugurated at Hanimaadhoo to breed eco-friendly parasitoids for coconut palm pest management, aiming to produce 100,000 parasitoids daily. Marine Science & Biodiversity: Maldives Marine Research Institute’s 6th Marine Science Symposium opened with a push for research-led policy to protect coral reefs and marine life. Wildlife Sighting: A rare oceanic whitetip shark breach was documented by divers in Fuvahmulah and later published in an international journal. Health Alert (Regional): The US issued a fresh dengue travel alert for Kenya’s coastal region plus Garissa and Wajir, urging standard mosquito precautions. Governance & Accountability: President Muizzu urged continued investment in integrity, transparency and accountability as SIDS audit leaders met in Ukulhas.

Marine Wildlife: A rare oceanic whitetip shark breach was recorded by divers in Fuvahmulah and later published in an international journal, adding fresh detail to how Maldives’ open-ocean species behave. Marine Science: Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam opened the 6th Marine Science Symposium, stressing that research is key to protecting the reefs and marine biodiversity that underpin livelihoods. Food Security & Climate Resilience: Maldives launched an agroforestry initiative across 10 islands to boost local food production, cut import dependence, and strengthen resilience to climate impacts, with 400,000 saplings planned. Waste & Pollution Concerns: Waste Management Corporation (WAMCO) is facing scrutiny over alleged waste spills into the Hulhumalé lagoon, with the managing director pointing to liveaboard vessels as a possible source. Governance & Accountability: President Dr. Muizzu urged integrity and transparency as SIDS audit leaders met in Ukulhas, linking strong institutions to resilience for small island states. Sports for the Sea: Dhiraagu Malé Open swimming registrations were extended to 9 August, with the event also promoting marine environment awareness. Environment Diplomacy: The Environment Minister met the Maldives ambassador to Qatar to discuss strengthening cooperation on environment and climate change.

Marine Wildlife & Research: Divers in Fuvahmulah recorded a rare oceanic whitetip shark breaching between Fuvahmulah and Huvadhoo Atoll, with the sight later published in an international journal—highlighting how little we still know about Maldives marine life. Marine Science & Policy: Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam opened the 6th Marine Science Symposium, stressing that coral reefs and marine species underpin the nation’s economy and that research must guide climate adaptation and ocean protection. Waste & Water Quality Concerns: WAMCO’s managing director suggested liveaboard vessels may be linked to waste buildup and alleged spills in Hulhumalé lagoon, after complaints raised public health and environmental damage worries. Food Security & Climate Resilience: Maldives launched an agroforestry project across 10 islands, distributing 400,000 saplings to boost soil health, biodiversity, and local food production while strengthening resilience to climate risks. Community Action: Registration for the Dhiraagu Malé Open 2026 has been extended to 9 August, with races at Rasfannu and a new 500m team relay—framed as a way to promote open-water swimming and marine protection. Governance & Integrity: President Muizzu urged continued investment in transparency and accountability at SIDS audit and global summit events, calling for every dollar to be used for its intended purpose. Renewables Diplomacy: Parliament approved Thoriq Ibrahim as Maldives’ permanent representative to IRENA, strengthening the country’s renewable energy engagement.

Marine Science & Biodiversity: Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam opened the 6th Marine Science Symposium, stressing that Maldives coral reefs and marine species underpin the nation’s economy and communities, and calling for more research-led management as climate change accelerates. Marine Research Focus: The symposium highlighted a push to build national expertise and expand cooperation with international researchers, with 47 presentations this year. Ocean Conservation & Tourism Value: A World Oceans Day piece reminds readers the ocean is the Maldives’ core identity and tourism engine—so resorts and operators must keep protecting reefs and biodiversity. Waste & Water Quality Concerns: WAMCO faces scrutiny over alleged waste spills at Hulhumalé lagoon during transfers; its managing director suggested liveaboard vessels may be dumping waste, while noting plastic bottles are among the waste collected. Food Security & Climate Resilience: Maldives launched an agroforestry project across 10 islands to boost food security, reduce import dependence, and strengthen resilience, including distribution of 400,000 saplings and community nurseries. Digital Childhood Safety: UNICEF Maldives released a report on growing up online, outlining priorities like digital equity, citizenship, safety, and wellbeing for families, schools, and policymakers. Banking Restructuring: Bank of Maldives announced a leadership reorganization aimed at simplifying the customer journey and supporting sustainable growth, with four executive roles rotating for six months. Water Treatment Business Milestone: Chemlab opened a new Hulhumalé showroom, expanding its one-stop services for water treatment systems, lab products, and technical support.

Marine Science & Biodiversity: Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam told the 6th Marine Science Symposium that the Maldives is home to some of the world’s richest marine biodiversity, stressing research as key to protecting coral reefs and megafauna that underpin livelihoods and the economy. Agroforestry for Food Security: The Maldives launched an agroforestry project across 10 islands to cut reliance on imported food and boost climate resilience, with 400,000 saplings and community nurseries supporting fruit trees, staple crops and soil-enriching species. Waste & Public Health Concerns: WAMCO’s managing director Mujuthaba Jaleel suggested liveaboard vessels may be contributing to waste buildup in Hulhumale’ lagoon amid complaints about waste spills during transfers. Bank of Maldives Restructuring: Bank of Maldives announced a leadership reorganisation effective 4 Aug, rotating four executive roles for six months to strengthen accountability and improve the customer journey. Tourism & Ocean Value: A World Oceans Day piece reiterates the ocean as the Maldives’ core identity and tourism engine, calling for stronger stewardship across resorts. Business & Governance: Maldives’ Ministry of Economic Affairs shut 107 illegally operated foreign-run businesses, while President Muizzu appointed Fathimath Dhiyana Saeed as ambassador to Belgium and the EU.

Waste & Public Health: WAMCO’s managing director says liveaboard safari vessels may be dumping waste in Hulhumalé lagoon, after complaints and a letter from North Galolhu MP Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu) about alleged waste spills during transfers. Agroforestry for Resilience: Maldives launches an agroforestry project across 10 islands to boost food security and climate resilience, distributing 400,000 saplings and setting up community nurseries under the Five Million Trees Program. Marine Conservation: Sun Siyam Vilu Reef rolls out an “Adopt-a-Coral” conservation initiative, adding to ongoing reef-protection efforts. Oceans Focus: A World Oceans Day piece spotlights why the ocean is the Maldives’ core asset for identity, tourism, and marine biodiversity protection. Business Compliance: Maldives Ministry of Economic Affairs shuts 107 illegally run expat businesses after inspections, aiming for a fairer business environment. Tourism & Nature: Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa announces a resort-wide refurbishment, promising upgrades while preserving the island’s natural landscape.

Marine Conservation & Climate: Sun Siyam Vilu Reef launched its Adopt-a-Coral initiative on World Nature Conservation Day, letting guests attach live coral fragments to nursery frames and track reef recovery updates. Marine Life & Awareness: World Oceans Day coverage reiterates the Maldives’ ocean-first identity—coral reefs, manta rays, and tourism—while urging stronger stewardship from resorts and visitors. Biodiversity Research: A study warns drifting tuna fishing gear is entering about half of marine protected areas, raising new pressure on reef and pelagic ecosystems. Tsunami Preparedness: A look back at the 2006 Pangandaran tsunami highlights how weak warning delivery and limited local readiness still matter today as climate risks intensify. Local Governance & Resilience: Fuvahmulah mayoral reporting from Jiangsu focuses on practical lessons for island water, renewable energy, and wetland protection. Economy & Services: Maldives Islamic Bank (MIB) posted Q2 growth with assets at MVR 19.31B and rising deposits, while the Ministry of Economic Affairs shut 107 illegal expat-run businesses. Tourism & Infrastructure: Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa announced a resort-wide refurbishment and a long-stay offer with speedboat transfers. Trade & Regional Links: Maldives–Türkiye preferential trade agreement took effect, cutting tariffs across 75 lines to boost fisheries exports.

World Oceans Day (Maldives): A new feature argues the ocean is the Maldives’ core asset—driving tourism, culture and livelihoods—while urging resorts to keep pushing conservation. Coral restoration in the lagoon: Sun Siyam Vilu Reef launched its “Adopt-a-Coral” initiative, letting guests attach live coral fragments to nursery frames and track regrowth. Marine debris risk: A global study warns drifting fish aggregating devices can reach and harm protected marine areas worldwide, calling for tighter limits and better retrieval. Heat pressure on jobs: A World Bank report says extreme heat is already costing South Asia the equivalent of 31 million full-time jobs yearly and could cut the region’s economy by nearly 7% by 2050, with Maldives included. Airport weather-proofing call: Maldives aviation experts and travellers complain Velana International Airport’s drop-off and arrival areas leave people exposed to heavy rain and heat, urging upgrades for climate resilience. Resort refurbishments: Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa announced a resort-wide refurbishment, positioning it as upgrades that preserve the island’s natural character. Local leadership & sustainability lessons: Fuvahmulah mayor Ismail Rafeeq shared takeaways from Jiangsu on desalination, renewable energy and wetland protection for island communities. Trade boost: Maldives–Türkiye preferential trade agreement took effect, offering tariff concessions across 75 lines to support fisheries exports.

Airport Comfort & Climate Resilience: Citizens and aviation expert Mohamed Firaq are calling for Velana International Airport’s drop-off area to be weather-proof after heavy rain left arriving passengers exposed, luggage soaked, and taxi queues chaotic. Marine Conservation: Sun Siyam Vilu Reef launched its ‘Adopt-a-Coral’ initiative on World Nature Conservation Day, letting guests attach live coral fragments to nursery frames and track restoration progress. Reef Protection & Pollution Control: A global study warns drifting fish aggregating devices are affecting more than half of the world’s protected marine areas, pushing calls for tighter limits and better retrieval responsibility. Tourism & Environment: Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa announced a resort-wide refurbishment aimed at upgrading guest spaces while preserving the island’s natural character. Heat’s Economic Hit: A World Bank report says extreme heat is costing South Asia the equivalent of 31 million job-equivalents each year and could cut the region’s economy by nearly 7% by 2050, with Maldives included. Local Community Events: Kulhudhuffushi will host the 2026 Island Carnival (Sept 30–Oct 4) with a bazaar and family entertainment. Trade & Food Links: Maldives–Türkiye’s preferential trade agreement took effect, offering tariff concessions across 75 lines, with a focus on market access for Maldivian fisheries exports.

Airport & Weather Readiness: A veteran aviation CEO is calling for Velana International Airport’s terminal drop-off area to be weather-proof after heavy rain left arriving passengers exposed, with taxi queues and soaked luggage. Coral Restoration: Sun Siyam Vilu Reef launched its World Nature Conservation Day “Adopt-a-Coral” initiative, letting guests attach live coral fragments to nursery frames and track regrowth. Marine Pollution & Wildlife Risk: A new global study warns drifting fish aggregating devices affect more than half of the world’s protected marine areas, urging stronger limits and better responsibility for retrieval. Climate Pressure on Jobs: A World Bank report says extreme heat is already costing South Asia the equivalent of 31 million full-time jobs a year and could cut the region’s economy by nearly 7% by 2050, with Maldives included. Tourism & Trade: Maldives–Türkiye’s preferential trade agreement took effect, offering tariff concessions across 75 lines to boost market access for Maldivian fisheries exports. Local Community Events: Kulhudhuffushi will host the 2026 Island Carnival (Sept 30–Oct 4) with a bazaar and family entertainment. Resort Updates: Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa announced a resort-wide refurbishment and a long-stay offer with complimentary speedboat transfers.

Heat & jobs: A new World Bank report warns extreme heat is already cutting South Asia’s labour productivity and could shrink the region’s economy by nearly 7% by 2050, with Maldives included among the hardest-hit countries. Coral restoration: Sun Siyam Vilu Reef launched its ‘Adopt-a-Coral’ initiative, letting guests help attach live coral fragments to nursery frames for reef recovery. Marine debris risk: A global study finds drifting fish aggregating devices (dFADs) affect more than half of the world’s protected marine areas, calling for tighter limits and better retrieval. Health travel update: The CDC updated its dengue destination list, now naming the Maldives among countries with year-round dengue risk. Airport weather woes: A Maldives aviation expert urged authorities to weather-proof Velana International Airport’s drop-off area after heavy rain left passengers exposed and frustrated. Local transport planning: Malé City Council approved plans for a modern ferry terminal with motorcycle parking in front of BML HQ. Resort conservation & nature: Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort & Spa announced a resort-wide refurbishment while saying it will preserve the island’s long-standing natural landscape. Digital tourism push: Visit Maldives Corporation partnered with Hey Travellers to promote resorts through a virtual, quest-based gaming experience.

Climate & Jobs: A new World Bank report warns extreme heat is already cutting South Asia’s labour productivity and could cost the region the equivalent of 31 million full-time jobs every year, with the economy shrinking by nearly 7% by 2050; it flags Maldives among the affected countries and calls for heat-resilient infrastructure, worker protection, sustainable cooling and early warnings. Reef Restoration: Sun Siyam Vilu Reef launched its “Adopt-a-Coral” initiative for World Nature Conservation Day, letting guests attach live coral fragments to nursery frames and track growth updates—aimed at rebuilding habitats in South Nilandhe Atoll. Marine Pollution Risk: A global study in Science Advances finds drifting fish aggregating devices (dFADs) affect more than half of the world’s protected marine areas, urging stronger limits, better tracking and company responsibility for retrieving lost gear. Health Travel Notice: The CDC updated its dengue destination list, now including the Maldives among countries with year-round dengue risk (risk doesn’t vanish when a country drops off). Tourism & Connectivity: Maldives leads UAE summer travel with one in five overseas hotel bookings; separately, APEDA facilitated the first-ever air shipment of Karnataka mangoes (Neelam and Totapuri) to the Maldives. Local Infrastructure: Malé City Council is set to develop a modern ferry terminal with motorcycle parking in front of BML HQ, adding waiting areas, restrooms, a prayer room and food courts. Sustainability Certification: Cora Cora Maldives earned Green Globe Gold status after a 93% audit, citing coral restoration, marine conservation and community programmes under its “Freedom Footprints” plan.

Marine Protection & Fisheries: A new global study in Science Advances says drifting fish aggregating devices (dFADs) are reaching more than half of the world’s protected marine areas, with thousands of strandings recorded across 174 protected areas from 2007–2023—raising alarms about coral damage, wildlife entanglement, and the burden on coastal communities to clear lost gear. Public Health: The US CDC updated its dengue travel destination list, now including the Maldives among countries flagged for year-round dengue risk, while also adjusting the chikungunya notice for northwest Costa Rica. Climate & Jobs: A World Bank report warns extreme heat could cut South Asia’s economy by nearly 7% by 2050 and already harms jobs and productivity, with the Maldives listed among the affected countries. Maldives Transport Resilience: Aviation expert Mohamed Firaq urged authorities to better weather-proof Velana International Airport’s terminal drop-off area after heavy rain delays and rain-exposed taxi queues sparked passenger frustration. Local Infrastructure: Malé City Council approved plans for a modern ferry terminal on the vacant plot in front of Bank of Maldives HQ, adding waiting space, restrooms, a prayer room, and multi-level motorcycle parking. Tourism Finance: Bank of Maldives launched “Liveaboard Finance,” offering vessel financing at 9.5% per annum with USD repayments and seasonal repayment structures for liveaboard operators. Sustainability in Resorts: Cora Cora Maldives earned Green Globe Gold status after a 93% sustainability audit, citing coral restoration, marine conservation, community partnerships, and guest education.