AGP Executive Report

Reef Restoration: Dhiraagu, Soneva Conservation and Sustainability Maldives and local partners will train 10–15 Dharavandhoo residents in coral restoration, establish a community nursery and involve young people in protecting reefs near Hanifaru Bay. Maldivian Flavours: Chef Maha Naseer showcased traditional dishes at a tuna gala in Dhaka, where officials highlighted the Maldives’ sustainable pole-and-line fishery, culinary heritage and tourism ties with Bangladesh. Island Traditions: The first Odin Rashah open-water swimming event drew 25 teams and 50 individual swimmers to Villimale’. Inspired by how islanders once swam ashore, the 500-metre race will move to Guraidhoo on November 27. Education: On Teachers’ Day, President Mohamed Muizzu said the government would prioritise teachers’ wellbeing, working conditions and support for inclusive education. Maldivian Heritage: Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu will celebrate island traditions, food and music through its “Roots & Tides” festive programme from December 22 to January 7.

Travel & Culture: Swim Maldives wrapped up the first Odin Rashah open-water swim, reviving a traditional island practice with 500m beach-to-boat races and plans to expand the series southward. Maldives Lifestyle: Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is set to celebrate “Roots & Tides,” a festive programme built around Maldivian heritage, local flavours, and sea-led island traditions. Hospitality Awards: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands earned Two MICHELIN Keys, moving up from One Key and highlighting its culture-and-conservation approach. Education & Community: Teachers’ Day messages from the Education Ministry and President Muizzu focus on safer schools, teacher wellbeing, and stronger mental health support. Public Services: Maldives Immigration says passport services should return to normal next week after supply delays, with emergency issuance continuing for urgent cases. Family & All-Inclusive: Kandooma Maldives relaunches with a family-first all-inclusive concept, adding new villas and experience inclusions. Sports: Registrations are open for The Maldives LONG RUN 2026 in Hulhumalé on Dec 4.

Immigration Update: Maldives Immigration says passport services should return to normal next week, after a new stock delay and an earlier extension deadline that expired on Sept 27. Road Safety & Youth: A Malaysia crash involving two Maldivian students is under scrutiny after the taxi driver tested positive for methamphetamine. Culture & Family Travel: Kandooma Maldives relaunches with a family-first all-inclusive concept, adding new Family Beach Pool Villas and more included experiences. Hospitality Recognition: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands wins Two MICHELIN Keys, moving up from One Key last year. Maldivian Heritage Fest: Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu launches “Roots & Tides,” a festive programme celebrating Maldivian traditions, food and ocean-led experiences. Education Focus: Teachers’ Day messages from Maldives leaders stress safer schools, teacher wellbeing, and stronger parent-teacher cooperation. Community & Rehabilitation: Red Crescent and the Maldives Correctional Service sign an agreement to run training programmes for inmates and prison personnel. Wellness Trend: Amilla Maldives announces autumn wellness residencies, blending Traditional Chinese Medicine with holistic coaching. Sports: Registrations open for The Maldives LONG RUN 2026 in Hulhumalé on Dec 4. Media Responsibility: MMBC urges broadcasters to share news responsibly on National Broadcasting Day.

Teachers’ Day Focus: Maldives leaders used International Teachers’ Day to push safer schools and teacher wellbeing, with the Education Minister highlighting mental health support and President Muizzu promising priority to teachers’ working conditions and inclusive education. Road Safety & Daily Life: The Greater Male’ Transport and Mobility Office and Police met to tackle rising traffic accidents, especially in Hulhumalé, aiming for stronger cooperation on road safety. Wellness & Lifestyle: Amilla Maldives announced autumn 2026 wellness residencies, while National Geographic Traveller spotlighted a wider Indian Ocean shift toward more immersive, nature-led wellness experiences. Culture & Community: MMBC urged responsible broadcasting on National Broadcasting Day, stressing Islamic values, Maldivian identity and accurate information. Family Travel & Resorts: Kandooma Maldives relaunched with an experience-led all-inclusive concept built around family stays, and Grand Park Kodhipparu rolled out “Celebrate More, Feel More” for Oct–Dec 2026. Social Support & Inclusion: The President personally stepped in after reports a child with down syndrome was rejected by five schools, and the Red Crescent and Correctional Service signed an agreement to train inmates and prison personnel. Crime & Enforcement: Police reported arrests over illegal liquor production in Malé, and a Maldivian received a 20-year sentence in Vietnam for drug smuggling. Sports & Events: Registrations opened for The Maldives LONG RUN 2026 in Hulhumalé on Dec 4.

Road Safety in Greater Malé: The Transport and Mobility Office and Maldives Police met to tackle rising traffic accidents, with Hulhumalé flagged as the hotspot and cooperation plans aimed at safer roads. Teachers’ Day Focus: Education Minister Dr Ismail Shafeeu said schools are being made safer and happier, with stronger mental health support; President Muizzu added that teachers’ wellbeing and inclusive education for children with disabilities will be prioritized. Parent-Teacher Partnership: Sun Siyam Group chairman Ahmed Siyam urged parents to work hand-in-hand with teachers and back their religious and national duty. Teacher Recognition Story: A Maldivian-linked teaching legacy made headlines as a national award recipient reflected on family generations of education. Inclusive Education Case: President Muizzu personally stepped in after a child with down syndrome was reportedly rejected by five schools, calling for better support and trained teachers. Rehabilitation Training: Maldivian Red Crescent and Maldives Correctional Service signed an agreement to run training for inmates and prison personnel to support reintegration. Liquor Crackdown: Police arrested two Indian nationals in Malé over illegal liquor production and sales, seizing 906 bottles and cash. Real Estate Law Clarification: Attorney General Ahmed Usham said the new real estate law is not drafted for Eagle Hills specifically, aiming to build a market separate from tourism. Culture & Lifestyle: Resorts rolled out fresh family and festive experiences, from Kandooma’s new all-inclusive family chapter to Grand Park Kodhipparu’s “Celebrate More, Feel More” seasonal campaign. Community Events: Registrations opened for The Maldives LONG RUN 2026 in Hulhumalé on Dec 4.

Rehabilitation & Rights: The Maldivian Red Crescent and the Maldives Correctional Service signed an agreement to run training for inmates and prison personnel, aiming to boost skills and support reintegration through religious education, literacy, ICT, vocational training, and counselling. Broadcasting & Culture: The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission marked National Broadcasting Day by urging responsible news sharing, highlighting broadcasting’s role in protecting Islamic values and Maldivian identity. Education Access: President Muizzu said he will personally look into the case of a child with down syndrome reportedly rejected by five schools, after meeting the child and her mother. Tourism & Family Lifestyle: Kandooma Maldives rebranded after 17 years as Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma, launching an experience-led all-inclusive concept with new family villas and added activities. Hospitality & Food: Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa unveiled its Masters of Food & Wine series, bringing six Michelin-starred chefs to “Our Living Island” from Oct 2026 to Apr 2027. Sports & Community: Registrations opened for Maldives LONG RUN 2026 in Hulhumalé on Dec 4, with 5K to full marathon distances. Energy & Sustainability: RAH GILI MALDIVES highlighted its 2MW solar installation as part of a hybrid power model to cut diesel dependence.

Sports & Community: Registrations are open for The Maldives LONG RUN 2026 in Hulhumalé on Dec 4, with 5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Full Marathon distances aimed at both first-timers and seasoned runners. Media & Culture: The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission marked National Broadcasting Day by urging responsible news sharing, highlighting broadcasting’s role in protecting Islamic values, Maldivian identity and culture. Family Tourism: Kandooma Maldives has relaunched after 17 years as Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma, unveiling a refreshed experience-led all-inclusive concept with new Family Beach Pool Villas and added family activities. Human Rights: President Muizzu appointed Shamoon Hameed, H. Minaz, to the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives, with a background in HRCM investigations and child-rights work. Resort Leadership: Cora Cora Maldives promoted Muizz Mohamed to General Manager effective Oct 1, 2026, citing his focus on equal opportunities and guest experience. Food & Lifestyle: Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa announced its Masters of Food & Wine Series (Oct 2026–Apr 2027), bringing six Michelin-starred chefs for seasonal culinary chapters. Education Inclusion: President Muizzu said he will personally look into a case of a child with down syndrome reportedly rejected by five schools. Hospitality Tech: MIRA launched the Maldives Guest Information System (MGIS) to help guesthouses and tourism businesses submit guest information more efficiently.

Culinary Culture: Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa launches its Masters of Food & Wine Series, bringing six MICHELIN-starred chefs to “Our Living Island” from Oct 2026 to Apr 2027, with each chapter tied to seasonal celebrations and local ingredients. Heritage & Identity: A new Maldives-focused MasterChef Sri Lanka destination episode spotlights Maldivian cuisine, culture and hospitality for a regional audience. Tourism & Hospitality: Kandooma Maldives rebrands from Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, rolling out an experience-led, family-friendly all-inclusive refresh with new villa options and private pools. Sustainability in Style: RAH GILI MALDIVES highlights a large-scale 2MW solar installation and hybrid power model aimed at cutting diesel dependence. Inclusive Education: President Muizzu personally steps in after a child with down syndrome was reportedly rejected by five schools, pushing for stronger support in education. Digital Governance: Maldives Inland Revenue Authority launches the Maldives Guest Information System (MGIS) to streamline guest data reporting for guesthouses and tourism businesses. Geopolitics & Memory: A deep dive revisits the Chagos dispute, now including the Maldives’ own historical claim tied to Foalhavahi.

Masters of Food & Wine: Park Hyatt Maldives Hadahaa launches a six-chef MICHELIN-star series running Oct 2026–Apr 2027, with each chapter tied to seasonal moments and local Maldivian ingredients. UNGA 81 Explainer: A look at what South Asian countries told the world at the UN General Assembly—climate justice, conflict diplomacy, AI sovereignty, and UN reform, with no single regional agenda. Tourism & Culture Spotlight: Maldives features in a special destination episode of MasterChef Sri Lanka on 3 Oct, highlighting Maldivian cuisine and hospitality for a regional audience. Inclusive Education: President Muizzu steps in after a child with down syndrome was reportedly rejected by five schools, raising questions about real inclusion and support in both private and public systems. Energy & Sustainability: RAH GILI MALDIVES shares how a large-scale 2MW solar installation is reducing diesel dependence as part of its hybrid power model. Resort Updates: Kandooma Maldives rebrands with a refreshed, experience-led all-inclusive concept, while Coco Bodu Hithi rolls out “Island Glow” festive programming. Digital Tourism Admin: MIRA launches the Maldives Guest Information System (MGIS) to streamline guesthouse and tourism reporting and link data to state financial institutions.

Wellness Trends in the Indian Ocean: A new wave of Maldives-style wellness is moving beyond spa menus—full-moon rituals, ocean-tide practices and deeper body diagnostics are becoming the “encounter” travellers want. Inclusive Education: President Muizzu says he will personally look into a Maldivian child with down syndrome reportedly rejected by five schools, after the family raised concerns about real support and trained teachers. Resort Culture & Family Life: Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is leaning into Maldivian heritage and daily wellness as part of an expanded all-inclusive experience, while Coco Bodu Hithi’s “Island Glow” festive programme brings together local food, music and ocean adventures. Energy & Sustainability: RAH GILI MALDIVES highlights a large-scale 2MW solar installation as part of its hybrid power model to cut diesel dependence. Tourism Tech for Guesthouses: MIRA launched the Maldives Guest Information System (MGIS), a centralized platform to help guesthouses submit tourist data and link it with state financial systems. Hospitality Updates: Kandooma Maldives begins a new experience-led all-inclusive chapter under its refreshed brand.

Education & Inclusion: President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu says he will personally look into reports that a Maldivian child with down syndrome was rejected by five schools, after meeting the girl and her mother on the “Rayyithunge Adu” programme. Tourism Tech: MIRA launched the Maldives Guest Information System (MGIS), a centralized digital platform to help guesthouses and tourism businesses submit guest information more efficiently and link it with state financial institutions. Diplomacy: Japan marked 10 years of its Maldives embassy with a ceremony in Malé, featuring speeches on closer cooperation and consular services. Resort Culture & Festivities: Coco Bodu Hithi rolls out “Island Glow” for 22 Dec–7 Jan, blending Maldivian traditions, music, coral planting and family activities. Sustainability in Hospitality: RAH GILI MALDIVES highlighted a large-scale 2MW solar installation with battery storage to cut diesel dependence. Brand & Family Travel: Kandooma Maldives begins a new chapter with a refreshed, experience-led all-inclusive concept and new family villas. Travel Infrastructure: Maldivian opened its modernised seaplane terminal with lounges, a children’s play area and a Maldivian-branded kiosk.

Tourism & Culture: Ifuru Island Maldives will mark its 3rd anniversary on 1 December 2026 with “Global Harmony,” a fashion, dance and music celebration built around “Different cultures. One rhythm. One Ifuru.” Hospitality & Lifestyle: Kandooma Maldives rebrands from Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma Maldives, launching a refreshed, experience-led all-inclusive concept with new family pool villas and upgraded accommodation. Travel & Business: Maldivian opened its modernised seaplane terminal at Velana, adding more lounges, a children’s play area, Maldivian-branded retail and a design meant to reflect local culture. Policy & Tech: MIRA launched the Maldives Guest Information System (MGIS), a central digital platform to help guesthouses and smaller tourism businesses submit guest information more efficiently and link it to state financial systems. Regional Connections: A tourism corridor idea between India and Sri Lanka is gaining momentum, focusing on two-way connectivity and more reasons to travel beyond just arrivals. Safety & Industry: The Maldives Safety and Security Conference 2026 begins, bringing resorts and agencies together to tackle tourism risks, emergency readiness and cybersecurity.

Tourism Corridor Talk: A Cinnamon Hotels executive argues India–Sri Lanka tourism should shift from arrivals-only to a two-way “corridor” built on easier, more frequent connectivity for leisure, business, weddings, MICE and experiences. Road Safety & Youth Helmets: Sri Lanka’s SLMA expert committee links road traffic deaths to infrastructure gaps and unsafe habits, backing the “Helmet Hero” push with Rotary Sri Lanka and Maldives to provide SLS-certified helmets for children. Maldivian Air Travel Upgrade: Maldivian opens a modernised seaplane terminal at Velana with air-conditioning, lounges, a children’s play area and Maldivian-branded retail—plus a push to keep operations on track after earlier debt. Brand Refresh in the Maldives: Kandooma Maldives relaunches from Holiday Inn Resort Kandooma with refreshed family villas and an experience-led all-inclusive approach. Ocean-Inspired Festive Season: Dusit Hotels rolls out Ocean Carnival (Dusit Thani) and Reef & Rhythm (dusitD2 Feydhoo) across two resorts. Hospitality Careers & Culture: Atmosphere Core appoints Neeraj Seth to lead communications across Maldives and Sri Lanka, aiming to spotlight resort stories and people. Women’s Leadership: PMI-WILL wraps in Sri Lanka, supporting thousands of women councillors and administrators to make local services more inclusive and gender-responsive.

Maldivian Travel & Culture: Maldivian opened its modernised seaplane terminal at Velana, with a new air-conditioned design, the “Huvandhumaa” lounge, children’s play area, souvenir kiosk and expanded seating—plus a push to reflect Maldivian culture and nature. National Governance & Economy: Finance Minister Hassan Zareer says the Ras Malé Waterfront and Marina deal with Eagle Hills could bring about USD 1.1bn a year on average, with government revenue via TGST and set fees and no tax concessions. Tourism Safety: The Maldives Safety and Security Conference 2026 kicked off, bringing resorts, agencies and security professionals together to tackle tourism risks, emergency response and cybersecurity. Hospitality Careers: Atmosphere Core named Neeraj Seth Assistant VP – Communication, and Shrikant Dash will keynote Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2026 on “Emotional Ownership” and talent retention. Community & Rights: PMI-WILL wrapped up in Sri Lanka, supporting thousands of women councillors and administrators and strengthening gender-responsive local leadership. Public Help Request: Police released footage seeking a person wanted in an ongoing Family and Child Protection Unit investigation in Malé.

Police & Families: Maldives Police Service released video footage seeking help to locate a man wanted in an active case being investigated by the Family and Child Protection Unit, urging anyone with information to call 3322111 or the Family and Gender Affairs Department. Travel & Culture: Maldivian airline opened a modernised seaplane terminal at Velana International Airport, featuring the “Huvandhumaa” lounge, private lounges, a children’s play area, Maldivian-branded souvenirs, and a viewing deck—part of a wider push to get the airline back on track. Tourism Safety: The Maldives Safety and Security Conference 2026 kicked off, bringing together resorts, government agencies, security and fire services to discuss tourism risks, emergency response, and cybersecurity. Women’s Leadership: The PMI-WILL project wrapped up after supporting thousands of women councillors and administrators, with a focus on making local government more inclusive and gender-responsive. Hospitality Awards: THE OZEN COLLECTION celebrated major World Travel Awards wins, while the St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort announced its “Chapter X” festive season theme for its 10th anniversary. Education & Mobility: Malaysia plans to expand scholarships and pathways for Maldivian students, including easier administrative procedures and more internships. Lifestyle & Leisure: Meyyafushi Maldives marked its first anniversary with a three-day programme blending wellness, gastronomy, coral planting, and culture.

Tourism Awards: Ta Xua in Vietnam’s Son La was named Asia’s leading emerging tourism destination 2026 at the World Travel Awards Asia, Oceania & Indian Ocean gala in the Maldives, with its “paradise of clouds” landscapes and Mong cultural heritage standing out. Aviation & Upgrades: Maldivian opened a modernised seaplane terminal at Velana International Airport, featuring the Huvandhumaa lounge, private lounges, a children’s play area, a souvenir kiosk, and a viewing deck—designed to reflect Maldivian culture and prioritise environmental protection. Airline Turnaround: Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Mohamed Ameen said Maldivian is back on track after debt and service disruption from 2018–2023, with profits returning as operations improved. Wealth & Inequality: A new global snapshot shows in 27 countries the richest 0.1% hold more wealth than the bottom 80% combined, with Russia and South Africa leading the gap. Health Awareness: World Heart Day coverage highlights high rates of cardiovascular disease among Asian American communities and calls for earlier screening and prevention. Women’s Leadership: The PMI-WILL project concluded after supporting thousands of women councillors and administrators, with a focus on more inclusive, gender-responsive local government services. Resort Milestones: Meyyafushi marks its first anniversary (1–3 Nov 2026) with wellness, gastronomy, culture, and sustainability events including coral planting. Safety in Tourism: The Maldives Safety and Security Conference 2026 opened, bringing resorts and security professionals together to tackle tourism risks, emergency preparedness, and cybersecurity. Luxury Hospitality: The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort announced its “Chapter X” festive season (Dec 20, 2026–Jan 7, 2027), celebrating 10 years through island story and heritage-inspired experiences.