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Situation Maldives: Hopeful in Overcoming the Pandemic

A doctor from HPA Maldives in a press conference speaking to the media updating about Situation Maldives
It has been more than a month since the capital of Maldives, Male’ City was placed under a full lockdown. Situation of Maldives

It has been more than a month since the capital of Maldives, Male’ City was placed under a full lockdown. The island nation further extended the lockdown to 28th of May 2020, bracing for a potential surge during the period looking at the situation of maldives.

Within the week, the number of infected cases in Maldives reached to 1094 cases while 04 has died from the virus. Positive cases have also been recorded in other parts of Maldives including Sh. Narudhoo, H. A. Thakandhoo, N. Manadhoo, Sh. Milandhoo, H. A. Uligan, K. Himmafushi, and K. Thulusdhoo. However, the country has seen more recoveries, recording 59 individuals’ recoveries from COVID-19.

Majority of the infected being foreign nationals working in Maldives, several repatriation initiatives have been taken to support individuals wishing to return home. On 16th May 2020, the government of Maldives chartered a BIMAN Bangladesh Airline’s flight to help repatriate 353 Bangladeshis stranded in Maldives. Additional 70 Bangladeshis were repatriated on the following day through a Bangladesh Airforce flight. In addition to that, Maldivian Airlines has been operating rescue flights in aid of Maldivian nationals stranded abroad. This includes the repatriation of 234 Maldivians stranded across 16 cities in India on 11th May 2020.

The government of Bangladesh has been extending their generosity in aiding Maldives during this unprecedented time. On 16th May 2020, a second Bangladesh Air Force flight arrived in Maldives with 7000 kgs of food, medical equipment and medicine.

On behalf of the President of Maldives HE Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, and the people of the Maldives, I would like to thank the Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina, Foreign Minister Dr. A K Abdul Momen, the Government and the people of Bangladesh for this gesture of goodwill and generosity. It is a manifest reflection of the close friendship and the significant historic bonds that exist between our two brotherly nations.”

Press Statement by Abdulla Shahid, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Maldives

With more than 1300 individuals currently in quarantine facilities, health authorities have been strengthening the precautionary measures to contain the virus. Given the current situation, the authorities had projected a significant surge in the number of infected cases by the end of May 2020. Due to which, the Director General took the decision to further extended the lockdown in order to ensure public safety.

Health Minister Abdulla Ameen had stated that the lockdown in greater Male’ area cannot be lifted just yet and that he did not believe it could be lifted in the near future. Health professionals warned that Maldives could reach 77,000 cases by the end of May, urging the public to adhere to their advice and implement social distancing even at homes.

The government of Maldives has been supporting the public in several ways in this situation, including granting financial aid and loans to those affected by the pandemic. The government introduced an ‘Income Support Allowance’ and revealed on 13th May 2020 the eligibility criteria for the scheme. Under the scheme, government will grant an allowance up to MVR 5000 to individuals who were dismissed or suspended from employment, those on leave without pay, those facing salary deductions, and freelancers.

The entire world has been battling COVID-19 for months and has seen the despairing impact of the virus on daily lives.

Despite the past challenging months, a number of countries has slowly started easing travel restrictions while several grounded airlines have picked up travel. Plenty of hotels and resorts have started preparing to reopen under strict conditions and safety standards in place.

The Italian government also announced the plans to reopen their borders on 03rd June 2020. This would benefit the Maldivian tourism industry once the borders reopen in the island nation as Italy is a large part of the tourist arrivals in Maldives. However hopeful tomorrow seems, it is no doubt that the post COVID-19 world would be much different from what was known to everyone.

Looking at the changing situations across the world, Maldives is hopeful in overcoming the situation and resuming living normal lives.

Feature image by raajje
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Exploring Coffee Culture and Its Rise in Southeast Asia

Coffee in Southeast Asia - Slowbar Coffee in Thailand

The love for coffee in Southeast Asia runs deep. What began as a foreign beverage introduced by European colonists centuries ago has now evolved into a vibrant and essential part of daily life across the region. From the strong, sweet brews of Vietnam. To the traditional kopi tubruk of Indonesia. And the burgeoning café culture in Malaysia and Thailand, coffee has become a powerful symbol of connection, culture, and commerce. But how did this once unfamiliar drink become so beloved in Southeast Asia? Let’s explore how coffee took root in the region. How it evolved over time, and why it has become such an integral part of Southeast Asian culture.

The Evolution of Coffee Culture in Southeast Asia

Coffee’s journey through Southeast Asia began centuries ago. Introduced by European colonizers and missionaries. Countries like Vietnam and Indonesia were among the first to cultivate coffee beans, and these countries have since become powerhouses in the global coffee trade. Vietnam, for example, has long been known for its iconic iced coffee, cà phê sữa đá, made with strong Robusta beans and sweetened condensed milk. This drink has become a staple of daily life. Often enjoyed in bustling street cafés or small family-owned coffee shops.

Coffee culture in Southeast Asia - Sumatran Coffee in Indonesia
Sumatran Coffee, Indonesia
Image via: Queen Bean Coffee Company Blog

In Indonesia, the coffee culture traces its roots to colonial times when Dutch settlers established large plantations. Today, Indonesia is known for its unique coffee varieties like kopi tubruk (a traditional sweetened coffee) and the globally renowned Sumatra beans. The cultivation of coffee has shaped not only the region’s economy but also its social fabric, as locals gather in cafés to enjoy the rich, bold flavors and connect with one another.

The Rise of Coffee Shops and Specialty Cafés

In recent decades, the rise of specialty coffee shops has further fueled the revolution of coffee in Southeast Asia. These establishments, often featuring artisanal brewing methods and premium beans, cater to an increasingly sophisticated coffee market. Young people, in particular, have embraced the café culture. Transforming these spaces into hubs for socializing, studying, and working. In Thailand, for example, Bangkok’s vibrant coffee scene is home to a growing number of local roasters and internationally inspired cafés. Each offering a unique twist on the traditional coffee experience.

Roots at theCOMMONS, Bangkok, Thailand
Roots at theCOMMONS in Bangkok, Thailand
Image via: Noc Coffee Co

International coffee chains like Starbucks have also played a role in shaping the region’s coffee landscape. Introducing new trends and making coffee more accessible to a wider audience. However, despite this global influence, Southeast Asia’s traditional coffee culture continues to thrive. With many locals still opting for their beloved street-style brews over commercial chains.

Coffee’s Role in Daily Life and Social Gatherings

Coffee is not just a beverage in Southeast Asia. It is a social ritual, deeply intertwined with the culture. In countries like Vietnam and Malaysia, coffee shops are places of community gathering. Where people meet friends, discuss business, or simply relax and enjoy the moment. This sense of camaraderie and tradition is often reflected in the way coffee is consumed. In Vietnam, coffee drinking is often accompanied by lively conversation in outdoor cafés. While in Indonesia, the act of drinking coffee can be a quiet, contemplative experience shared with family or close friends.

The sense of connection that coffee fosters is one of the reasons it is so cherished in the region. It brings people together. Whether in bustling city centers or quiet rural towns, forming a shared experience across generations.

Coffee’s Economic Influence from Bean to Cup

Beyond its cultural impact, coffee has also become a major economic force in Southeast Asia. Vietnam, Indonesia, and Thailand are key producers of coffee beans, which are exported globally. This has not only shaped the local economies but has also created opportunities for farmers and small businesses involved in the coffee trade. Coffee cultivation provides jobs for millions of people. From farmers in the mountains of Vietnam to baristas in urban cafés across the region.

The growing demand for specialty coffee has also spurred innovation in the region. With local farmers experimenting with new growing techniques and processing methods to improve the quality of their beans. This has positioned Southeast Asia as a rising star in the global coffee industry. Attracting international attention and investment.

As coffee culture continues to evolve in Southeast Asia, its rich history, diverse flavors, and deep cultural significance will undoubtedly play a central role in shaping the future of coffee worldwide. From its humble beginnings as a colonial import to its current status as a symbol of connection, creativity, and commerce. Southeast Asia’s love for coffee is a testament to the region’s ability to adapt and transform global influences into something uniquely its own.

Feature Image via Aroma Thailand

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