Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam announced today that the government is interested in developing a "cat island" in the Maldives.
Speaking at a press conference held at the President's Office, Shiyam revealed that an international party has submitted a proposal to develop the island, and the government is currently in the process of evaluating it.
"There is genuine interest in developing a cat island in the Maldives, and we have received a very promising proposal. The evaluation process is currently underway. This proposal was submitted by an international party," Shiyam said.
The Minister noted that given the large community of cat lovers worldwide, establishing a dedicated island with modern facilities in a country like the Maldives would attract international interest.
Currently, the "Olhuhiya" pet shelter in Hulhumalé houses 281 cats, 35 of which were brought in just last month.
Shiyam further stated that efforts are underway to renovate and expand the capacity of the Olhuhiya shelter. Once these works are completed, the facility's capacity will increase to accommodate 500 cats.
