hajam.ai
9 September 2026

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On 9 September 2026, Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed announced that approximately MVR 220 million received from vehicle registrations and annual fees in the Greater Male' area would be spent on traffic solutions, with plans to introduce parking zones under a "touch and go" system on Boduthakurufaanu Magu and complete modern parking buildings by 2027. The F. Bilehddhoo Council decided to charge a fee of MVR 5,000 from people who relinquish their residency of the island, and to grant a financial allowance of MVR 2,500 to every newly registered resident. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu announced that the Cabinet had decided to execute a national project named "Ihuthiraam" to revive the culture of mutual respect in the community. According to statistics released by the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) on 9 September 2026, following the increase of the allowance to MVR 3,000 per child, MVR 17,469,000 was disbursed to 3,357 single parents taking care of 5,206 children. In a recent operation conducted by Maldives Immigration targeting spas and salons in Hulhumalé, 7 undocumented foreigners were arrested. Maldivian media also reported the tragic news of 16-year-old Hafiz Mohamed Ismail Aalam, who passed away in Birmingham, UK, after being hit by a car while riding his bicycle home after Fajr prayers. In addition, news emerged concerning efforts to boost the water capacity of Hulhumalé and the historical importance of the Addu Link Road.

A press conference was held with the participation of Minister of Transport Mohamed Ameen or senior officials of the ministry to discuss the traffic congestion and parking difficulties faced on the streets of Malé, and to disclose details of the measures the government has decided to take. During this meeting, information was shared with the media regarding the ongoing efforts to ensure safety on the streets of the capital city Malé and to find a permanent solution to the issue of illegal parking. Furthermore, details of the important reformative measures decided upon in collaboration with relevant institutions to strengthen public transportation and parking arrangements, and to improve traffic flow, were revealed at this meeting.

On September 9, 2026, widespread public attention was drawn to an issue that surfaced regarding a decision to levy a specific fee from individuals relinquishing their native island residency of F. Bileddhoo, and to provide a special allowance to those who register as residents of the island. Since such measures were decided upon to encourage maintaining and increasing the island's population, major debates have arisen among the relevant authorities and the public concerning whether a council legally and procedurally has the power to do this. Additionally, efforts to examine whether such decisions conflict with the Decentralization Act of Administrative Divisions of the Maldives and the fundamental rights of citizens commenced on this date.

As part of a special operation conducted by Maldives Immigration to locate foreigners living and working illegally, salons and spas in Hulhumalé were searched, and seven foreigners were taken into immigration custody. Eight businesses in Hulhumalé were inspected during this operation, and immigration officers checked the documents of 26 expatriate workers who were employed at these premises. Although seven individuals were found to be working illegally and were detained as a result of the inspection, the authorities did not disclose details of their nationalities. This inspection was carried out as part of a series of continuous efforts to locate and take action against those who violate immigration regulations and businesses that employ unauthorized foreigners.

Details of the national project 'Ihthiraam' were officially announced on Wednesday, September 9, 2026. The main objective of this project is to foster the good habit of mutual respect within society, strengthen social bonds, and establish a peaceful and secure environment. Along with this announcement, information was shared regarding the key areas under which the project will be conducted, as well as the important activities planned to be carried out involving various sectors of society. This national project initiated by the government is a crucial step toward reinforcing the moral standards of Maldivian society and reviving unity.

It was revealed on 9 September 2026 that additional individuals have registered to apply for the financial allowance provided by the state to single parents. The relevant authorities are working to accept new applicants and include them in the official registry for this allowance, which is provided to improve the living conditions of single mothers and fathers raising children. While this allowance is a crucial assistance provided to alleviate the financial difficulties faced by single parents, the number of beneficiaries has increased with the registration of additional parties. Under the established regulations, efforts will continue to provide this allowance through the social protection system to all eligible single parents.

Fahmy stated on 9 September 2026 that important work required to increase the water capacity of Hulhumalé is currently underway. These efforts are being carried out to provide uninterrupted water services in line with Hulhumalé's growing population, as well as to further enhance water production and storage capacity. Furthermore, he noted that under this project, the quality of services provided to the public will improve and a permanent solution to the challenges faced will be achieved.

On Wednesday, 9 September 2026, a 16-year-old Hafiz passed away suddenly while returning home after performing the Fajr prayer. This tragic incident occurred while the youth was on his way home after Fajr prayer, bringing profound grief to his family and many others. Following the passing of this young Hafiz who had memorized the Quran, relevant authorities and numerous members of the public have been sending condolences to the family.

The Addu Link Road was officially commemorated on September 9, 2026, as the first paved road in the Maldives to connect islands with asphalt. This milestone event highlighted that this historic road, which linked the connected islands of Addu City by land, is the most notable foundation laid in the Maldives' transportation and infrastructure development. Furthermore, the positive changes brought about by this project to the regional economy and the citizens' standard of living were recognized and especially noted.

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Politics

Amid criticism over the sale of a 1,250 square foot plot of land in Hulhumalé Phase 2 to Ahmed Zahir for MVR 468,750 at a rate of approximately MVR 375 per square foot, Housing Minister Dr. Abdulla Muththalib defended the transaction and submitted the matter to the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC). The government faced significant criticism regarding dismissals for political reasons, such as the sacking of Fazla, who had played a leading role in President Muizzu's mayoral campaign. On 9 September 2026, the Ministry of Economic Development refuted allegations claiming that the Male' Commercial Port relocation project to Thilafushi was awarded to China's CHEC by turning a blind eye to India and favoring a specific country. The Housing Minister denied rumors suggesting that the newly introduced Engineering Award was going to be conferred upon President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu. Former President Abdulla Yameen and former President Mohamed Nasheed also voiced criticisms regarding various political issues. Preparations required for holding the ruling PNC congress have now commenced by the party. On the same day, important discussions also took place regarding development projects in Thinadhoo and press freedom.

Economy

In the operations launched against illegally selling dollars on the black market, investigations conducted in connection with 65 cases resulted in the detention of six Bangladeshis at Velana International Airport and the seizure of foreign currency worth 3.8 million Rufiyaa. Customs statistics have revealed that although 232 people were fined 723.5 million Rufiyaa for illegally importing vapes, only 850,000 Rufiyaa has been paid to the state so far. The Islamic Economics Conference and Training Camp 2026, jointly organized by the Islamic University of Maldives and the International Islamic University Malaysia, officially commenced today. In order to further expand Maldives tourism and strengthen air transport connectivity, important discussions have been carried out between Maldives Marketing and PR Corporation and the national airline, Maldivian.

Sports

At a ceremony held at Meeruma Hall on 9 September 2026 to hand over the national flag to athletes representing the Maldives at the Asian Games and Youth Olympic Games, Minister of Sports Abdulla Rafiu spoke on the importance of representing the country on the international stage. During the ceremony, the national flag was officially handed over to table tennis player Moosa Munsif Ahmed and shooter Mariyam Eeshal Misbah, who were honored as flag bearers for the Asian Games.