Situation Maldives: Maldives Gears Up To Combat Covid-19

As a country renowned for tourism, the coronavirus outbreak directly affects the economy of Maldives. The island nation has been keeping a close eye on the situation across the world and taking all the necessary precautionary measures to combat an outbreak.

The first cases of coronavirus in the Maldives were reported on 7^th March 2020 from Kuredu Island Resort. As of today, there are 10 confirmed cases in Maldives, including the two cases from Sandies Bathala resort, two cases from Kuramathi Island Resort & Spa, and one from Anantara Dhigu Resort. Currently, there are 18 individuals in quarantine facilities, 09 in isolation and 02 in the hospital.

We have been taking appropriate measures and preparations against the virus prior to it being diagnosed in the Maldives. Government is using the available resources while following WHO protocols regarding the crisis. To overcome this situation, we need everyone’s help and we advice people to avoid public gatherings. We appreciate the efforts of everyone who has been working tirelessly day and night to stop the virus from spreading in the Maldives.”
Ibrahim Solih, President of Maldives

cabinetmeeeeting_140320 — Photo: *Cabinet discussions with president Ibrahim Solih*

From the initial flare-up of the virus, the Maldivian government has been quick in following the protocols. As of now, passengers travelling to Maldives from China, Iran, South Korea, Italy as well as Bangladesh has been banned until further notice. Moreover, entry of passengers from all provinces and regions of Spain, passengers from Bavaria, North Rhine-Westphalia and Baden-Wuttemberg in Germany, as well as from Ile-de-France and Grand Est in France has been restricted too. Reference: Civil Aviation Authority website.

While the country has effective medical emergency from 12th March 2020, Health Protection Agency (HPA) has also imposed a temporary ban on tourists checking into guesthouses and hotels for a period of 14 days within the greater Male’ area. The ban will be effective from 00:00 hours of 15th March 2020. Guests who are already checked into hotels and guesthouses in the area can stay until their checkout date. Reference: Health Protection Agency.

Airports have been taking all the necessary steps to ensure public health, by conducting thermal imaging and hand held temperature checks, thorough disinfection and cleaning up throughout the day.

Airlines in Maldives have stepped up to help create the best protective environment for their passengers, by providing hand sanitizer to all passengers and routine sanitization and disinfectants of aircrafts. Moreover, flight attendants are provided with safety masks and gloves, and the check-in staffs are instructed and trained to deal with any situation with regards to the virus.

Photo: Video by Trans Maldivian Airways

Resorts have been monitoring the in-house guests as well as the staff while keeping close communications with HPA to be informed of the situation. Medical personals are available on standby for any emergencies on the islands.

In order to prevent an outbreak, authorities have taken advantage of the geographical isolation and created quarantine facilities away from capital, Male’. Initially Farukolhufushi, and then Villivaru which was completed just 10 days as the second isolation facility.

While speaking to media, Minister Of Tourism, Ali Waheed highlighted, that Villivaru facility will be extended to 100 beds facility and preparation of another facility in A.A Velidhoo, which was previously operated as a tourist resort.

With HPA informing the community of the situation on social media platforms and via text messages.

It looks like with the right measures and awareness along a cautious and preventive lifestyle, Maldives can minimize the impact of the virus and overcome it.

There’s been so much attention on one word.
Let me give you some other words that matter much more, and that are much more actionable.
– Prevention.
– Preparedness.
– Public Health.
– Political Leadership.
And most of all, people.
we’re in this together, to do the right things with calm and protect the citizens of the world. It’s doable.
I thank you.”
Tedros Adhanom, Director General of WHO

Feature Photo by Ali Hashim Smith

In a bold move to streamline government operations, the government merged the Ministry of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy with the Ministry of Tourism, creating the new Ministry of Tourism and Environment. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu initiated this restructuring to unite two critical sectors that play pivotal roles in the Maldives’ economy and environmental sustainability.

President Muizzu appointed Thoriq Ibrahim as the new minister. Thoriq assumed his new role after a swearing-in ceremony. He previously served as Minister of Environment and Energy, bringing valuable expertise to this position. In addition, he will balance the Maldives thriving tourism industry with the pressing need to protect and conserve the environment. This remains a crucial priority for a nation facing significant climate challenges.

The merger reduces the number of ministries in the Maldivian government to 19. It opens up exciting opportunities for a unified approach to sustainability and tourism growth. Moreover, President Muizzu discussed the importance of integrating environmental conservation efforts into the tourism sector with Minister Thoriq. This integration aims to boost the Maldives global appeal as a premier eco-friendly destination.

The Maldives tourism industry plays a vital role in the nation’s economy. It contributes the largest share of GDP and foreign exchange earnings. At the same time, the country’s environmental needs remain just as critical. The Maldives is particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and climate change. The newly combined ministry will ensure that tourism growth aligns with environmental preservation. This is a challenging but necessary task for a country that relies heavily on both its natural beauty and environmental resilience.

Meanwhile, Thoriq Ibrahim draws on his experience in the environment ministry to navigate the complex responsibilities of his new role. He addresses multifaceted issues such as climate negotiations, energy policy, and waste management. These are crucial to securing the Maldives’ long-term environmental health. By combining tourism with environmental governance, the ministry will focus on sustainable tourism practices. It will promote eco-friendly resorts and advocate for responsible resource use to protect the nation’s fragile ecosystems.

The merger brings these sectors under one umbrella. There is optimism that this change will foster collaboration and innovation. The Maldives already enjoys a top spot as a tourist destination, known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and luxury resorts. With this in mind, the government plans to strengthen the Maldives’ reputation as a sustainable tourism destination. This will ensure the beauty of the islands is preserved for future generations.

The formation of the Ministry of Tourism and Environment represents a promising step toward a more integrated approach to economic growth and environmental stewardship. Under Minister Thoriq Ibrahim’s leadership, the Maldives will enhance its global standing as a sustainable, eco-friendly tourist destination. It will also prioritize the protection of its natural environment. As a result, this merger will create a harmonious balance between tourism development and environmental conservation. Ultimately, it will contribute to a brighter and more sustainable future for the Maldives.

Situation Maldives: Maldives Gears Up To Combat Covid-19

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