Social
HDC has invited interested parties to submit expressions of interest for the development of a 10-lane bowling arena, a gaming arcade, and a multipurpose hall in the Ruggan'du 2 area of Hulhumalé Phase 1. Singapore has introduced a new regulation imposing a $500 fine for eating and drinking on buses in the country. The Manfaa Association has commenced the production of a video documentary series recognizing the services of Maldivian religious scholars. Ahmed Shakir (Kashimaa) shared valuable insights regarding positive social attributes and moral conduct. Various parties also commended businessman and political leader Ahmed Siyam Mohamed for his valuable contributions to the social sector. MNDF has now officially called off the search operation conducted to find Captain Mohamed Hamdhoon, Police Sergeant Ali Naafiu, and MNDF Staff Sergeant Ibrahim Ahmed, who went missing after the supply vessel "Friend 4" capsized in the Huvadhoo Sea.
A project to develop a bowling arena and a gaming arcade in Hulhumalé Phase 2 was announced on 23 September 2026. The primary purpose of this project is to establish modern entertainment facilities where residents living in Hulhumalé Phase 2, particularly youth and children, can spend leisurely time. Along with this development, in addition to creating opportunities for bowling, a gaming arcade featuring various types of games will also be available in the area. This marks a significant step towards expanding social services in Phase 2 and improving the standard of living.
On 23 September 2026, the Housing Development Corporation (HDC) disclosed important information regarding the Hulhumalé Waterfront development project and various operations of the corporation. Under this project, it is planned to develop the Hulhumalé beachfront area to modern standards, unlocking favorable opportunities for the public and businesses alike. In addition, details of measures being undertaken to swiftly execute ongoing HDC projects and strengthen corporate governance were also highlighted on this day.
Work on producing a special video documentary series highlighting the services and lives of religious scholars, initiated by the Manfaa NGO, officially commenced on 23 September 2026. The main objective of this project is to record the valuable contributions made by scholars in spreading religious propagation and raising religious awareness, and to safely preserve that information for future generations. Through this documentary, the sacrifices of religious scholars and their scholarly services will be presented to the public via visual media.
In order to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for users of public transport services, a new regulation has been established prohibiting eating and drinking while traveling on buses, with violators subject to fines of up to 500 Singapore Dollars. Under this new rule announced on 23 September 2026, these fines can also be enforced against individuals who violate public etiquette, such as playing loud audio and placing their feet on seats, in addition to eating and drinking. Furthermore, the Land Transport Authority has also decided that those who dirty the buses or commit major acts that endanger passenger safety will be fined up to 5,000 Singapore Dollars. Relevant authorities urge passengers to maintain bus cleanliness and behave in a manner that does not inconvenience other commuters.
Relevant authorities have temporarily suspended the search and rescue operation to find three people missing in the Huvadhoo Sea. Following this incident at sea, despite extensive searches across a large area, the search activities have been decided to be paused for now as they have not been found. However, vessels traveling through the area have been urged to remain vigilant and share any information with the relevant authorities. Security forces stated that if further information or any leads are obtained, the operation is scheduled to resume.
A special statement was released on 23 September 2026 regarding the historic and valuable services rendered to the nation by Ahmed Siyam Mohamed (Sun Siyam), the Member of Parliament for the Meedhoo constituency and the leader of the Maldives Development Alliance (MDA). The statement highlighted his long-term valuable services in developing the tourism industry and economic sector of the Maldives, as well as in the social and political arenas. Additionally, noting Siyam's significant contributions for the benefit and well-being of the general public, particularly in the fields of education and humanitarian aid, the statement praised the leading role he has played in national development.
On Wednesday, 23 September 2026, Ahmed Shakir (Kashima) spoke extensively regarding the fine social qualities that need to be cultivated in Maldivian society. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of mutual respect and upholding good moral standards to maintain societal unity and harmony. Furthermore, he noted the importance of working at both the individual and community levels to teach such positive attributes to future generations and strengthen social ties.