Key economic highlights today include the reopening of Addu Shangri-La Resort after five years and the suspension of the Maldives Monetary Authority’s FIU head, Shazid. To support SMEs, waste collection fees have been reduced and storage facilities at major ports will be established. Meanwhile, issues have surfaced regarding the suspension of pensions for employed retirees and government travel expenditures exceeding the budget. Additionally, an agreement was signed for seaplane services to Thoddoo, preparations are underway for night operations at Funadhoo Airport, and infrastructure development continues with BML's affordable housing project agreements.

thoughts The Maldives Qualification Authority (MQA) has issued a warning against unauthorized online programs. Simultaneously, a decision was made today to further strengthen and integrate ethical standards and human values into the education system. These measures aim to maintain the quality of higher education in the Maldives and ensure students uphold strong moral character.

Haze is affecting visibility across parts of the Maldives, while a white alert has been issued for heavy rain in Fuvahmulah and Addu City. Additionally, concerns have surfaced regarding the leasing of a Hulhumale’ nursery plot to a foreign company, alongside allegations of environmental issues and financial irregularities surrounding the Ras Malé project.

Key health and social developments today include the opening of a pediatric clinic at Maafannu Urban Health Centre, the commencement of the new Huraa Health Centre building, and STO addressing medicine shortages. Notable legal updates include a 15-year sentence for a convicted rapist named Izam, progress in the Sunny Umar case, and an increase in reported child abuse cases. Additionally, police reported a decline in gang crimes, while several arrests were made regarding child abuse on TikTok Live, drug offenses, and foreign currency violations.

The passing of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia has brought significant changes to the country's political landscape, with many mourning the loss. Simultaneously, the government today reaffirmed its commitment to the 'One China' policy regarding Taiwan. These two international events have drawn significant global attention.

A presidential decree has been issued to relocate the residents of Hirimaradhoo to Hanimaadhoo. Forty-one media outlets have qualified for government financial assistance, while 70% of the Media Village project is complete. Adhaalath Party has scheduled its internal presidential election, and law enforcement agencies have launched a joint operation. The sentencing of Hassan Mamdhooh (Manday) in the K-Park fraud case has been postponed. Additionally, the opposition coalition heavily criticized government policies during a recent meeting.

An agreement was signed today to strengthen emergency preparedness and crisis management at Male' International Airport. Simultaneously, Customs seized a large quantity of illicitly imported cigarettes. Additionally, police released statistics regarding public inquiries and investigations conducted during 2025.

The government today announced the application date for Male' area housing and land schemes. Preparations for New Year’s Eve celebrations and fireworks in Hulhumale' are complete, and changes to Hulhumale' traffic flow have taken effect today. Additionally, projects to develop cinema complexes and youth centers across various cities were announced. While visa applications for foreign Hafizes are open, news reports indicate that the specific arrival date for Bollywood star Katrina Kaif remains unconfirmed.

The Maldives national futsal team completed key training sessions in China on December 30, 2024, as part of their ongoing training camp. This program aims to enhance player skills and fitness in preparation for upcoming international tournaments.

Bank of Maldives (BML) has launched the beta testing phase of its new digital wallet, 'Swipe.' This service aims to provide customers with a streamlined platform for digital financial transactions.