MVR 11 million and USD 43,000 raised from telethon to help Sri Lanka

Dec 2, 2025, 5:36 AM
Telethon organizers. -- Photo: PSM

Telethon organizers. -- Photo: PSM

MVR 11 million and USD 43,000 have been raised from the Maldivians with Ceylon telethon organized by some media outlets.

According to the Public Service Media (PSM), MVR 11.4 million or 209.5 million Sri Lankan Rupees and USD 43,000 or 13.2 million Sri Lankan Rupees were raised in the event. The total figure is 222 million Sri Lankan Rupees.

The Maldives Police Service provided MVR 2.4 million while the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) donated MVR 1 million.

The death toll in Sri Lanka has now reached 390 as the country continues rescue operations in the aftermath of Cyclone Ditwah. Around 352 people are still missing and 204,000 people were displaced, affecting more than one million people.

Some major businesses in the Maldives have also pledged assistance to the neighbouring country. Sun Siyam Group donated USD 200,000 or 61.8 million Sri Lankan Rupees. The group operates a resort in Sri Lanka.

The Villa Group donated USD 100,000 or 30 million Sri Lankan Rupees. Alia Investments donated USD 20,000 (6 million LKR) and Crown & Champa donated USD 10,000 (3 million LKR).

Comments

Read More

Latest News

MDP to stage protests if referendum is not held on Rasmale' deal

The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has passed a resolution to launch mass protests if the government does not hold a public referendum regarding the Rasmalé project. The opposition demands a halt to the project, citing concerns over secret financing and the potential sale of the site to a foreign businessman.

Nasheed announces full support for Rasmale' project

Former President Mohamed Nasheed has declared his full support for the government's plan to sell part of the Rasmalé project to a UAE businessman. Despite opposition within the MDP calling for a public referendum, Nasheed argues the investment will yield long-term benefits for the Maldives. He remains the sole party member against the move.

Chinese Ambassador applauds Muizzu's successful Pakistan trip

Chinese Ambassador Kong Xianhua praised President Muizzu’s successful state visit to Pakistan, where 20 agreements were signed to boost bilateral trade. The meeting between Chinese and Pakistani officials highlights strengthening ties, which India is monitoring closely given the regional dynamics and its own financial support to the Maldives.

Defence Minister visits the UAE embassy

Defence Minister Hassan Rasheed met with UAE Chargé d'Affaires Heba Al Jneibi to discuss strengthening bilateral ties. The visit follows controversy over a deal to sell 500 hectares of the Rasmalé reclamation project to UAE-based Eagle Hills. This move contradicts President Muizzu’s earlier pledge to keep the land under local ownership.

Commission formed to investigate the alleged sale of territory

President Muizzu has formed a commission to investigate the alleged sale of Maldivian maritime territory during a boundary dispute with the Chagos Archipelago. The inquiry will examine potential legal negligence by the previous administration and recommend actions against those responsible to prevent future occurrences.

Boating Association demands probe over diver altercation

The National Boating Association of Maldives has called for a formal probe into a viral video showing an underwater physical struggle between two diving teams. The NBAM condemned the incident and urged authorities to investigate the ownership and regulatory compliance of the vessels involved to protect the industry's reputation.

Five injured after gas cylinder explosion at Hulhumale’ cafe

Five people were injured, with four hospitalized, after a gas cylinder exploded at a cafe in Hulhumale' Phase 1. Emergency teams responded to the resulting fire near the Ruhgandu 1 area. Police are currently investigating the cause of the blast.

Newsletter

Get the latest news delivered straight to your inbox