hajam.ai
22 September 2026

Health

Three people were reported to have died from cancer in the Maldives over the past six days on 22 September 2026, including 36-year-old Ali Shahumy (Alikko), a member of the racing community who passed away while undergoing treatment for bone cancer in India. Furthermore, the other two deceased are Abdulla Jameel, 55, from Th. Thimarafushi, and Aishath Fakhriyya, 29, from B. Dharavandhoo, who passed away after battling stage four cervical cancer. Statistics from the official registry show that more than 1,600 people are registered with cancer, and while at least 1,106 new cases were recorded between 2020 and 2025, no official research has yet been conducted to identify the causes behind the increase in this disease.

As reported on 22 September 2026, three individuals have died from cancer within a short period of about a week. Given that cancer is a dangerous, life-threatening disease, the loss of three individuals to this illness within a single week is a profound sorrow for families and the community. In light of these tragic events, the dangers of cancer and the critical importance of early detection and treatment have been further underscored.

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Politics

Former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has decided not to contest the MDP primary for the upcoming 2028 presidential election and to endorse former Vice President Faisal Naseem. The MDP has decided to hold its upcoming congress open to the public. Former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom challenged President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to contest the election and questioned whether this administration is an Islamic government. On behalf of the government, President Muizzu was described as a leader who understands the sentiments of the people. A delegation of PNC Members of Parliament departed for Pakistan on an official visit. Following the case filed at the Civil Court by Thai national Kanokporn Thavongna, who was detained for deportation from the Maldives, the court dismissed the case after Immigration released her. Former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom marked 20 years since he first addressed the UN General Assembly in the Dhivehi language.

Economy

To develop the "Maldives Waterfront and Marina" project in Rasmale, an agreement valued between 12 billion and 20 billion dollars has been signed by Minister Dr. Abdulla Muththalib and Mohamed Alabbar, Chairman of Abu Dhabi's Eagle Hills company. The Ministry of Fisheries officially contracted the establishment of a 200-metric-ton fish cold storage facility in Th. Hirilandhoo to SJ Construction on 22 September 2026. The government has stated that the tourism industry will undergo changes due to new tax and foreign exchange policies. A special survey has now commenced to assess the income and expenditure of households in the Greater Male' area.

Education

Ayyash Ali Shathir achieved the title of best all-round student of Sh. Atoll School for the past academic year, along with national and international level achievements. The Dhivehi Language Academy has opened participation until October 8 for the Maldives' first national handwriting competition held for the Ali Fahmy Memorial Trophy. Additionally, regarding the public speaking competition held among schools in Addu and Fuvahmulah, a teacher expressed sentiments highlighting the students' talents and the enthusiasm of the competition.