President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has emphasized the importance of recognizing the hard work of fishermen, stating that honoring their efforts is a national duty.
He made these remarks in a post on his official X account in celebration of National Fishermen's Day, which is being observed today.
The President's statement underscored it is a national duty to honor the contributions of fishermen who work tirelessly at sea, regardless of weather conditions.
The Government is dedicated to addressing the concerns of the fisheries sector by working closely with fishermen. Per the President’s pledge, starting today, payments for weighed fish will be deposited within 48 hours for fishing boats that have accounts at the Bank of Maldives (BML).
Fishermen can also purchase fuel at State Trading Organisation (STO) rates from locations operated by STO or Fuel Supplies Maldives (FSM) in K. Himmafushi, GA. Kooddoo, Lh. Felivaru, and S. Hulhumeedhoo. Additionally, STO is ensuring that boats under the Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) in GA. Kooddoo and Lh. Felivaru also has fuel at the same rates available.
The President announced yesterday that the Government has decided to grant legal status to fishermen, noting their desire for employee benefits in other sectors to also apply to them.
The President is dedicated to improving the fisheries sector by engaging with fishermen to understand their needs. He recently met with them and has previously consulted with various fishermen's organizations to discuss concerns and explore solutions.
To boost income from fishing, the current Government initiated efforts in its first year to expand foreign markets for selling fish in the Maldives. This included increasing the number of fish manufacturing factories and improving the storage capacity for fish.
