The Fisheries Ministry has declined to disclose details regarding plans to award a project to an American company for the development of a "cat island" in the Maldives.
Adhadhu understands that the Ministry has received two separate proposals: one for the establishment of a feline facility and another for the development of a cat island. Information suggests that both proposals were submitted by two different firms based in the United States.
A source familiar with the matter told Adhadhu that the Ministry has decided to proceed with the American company that proposed the development of the cat island.
Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam confirmed to Adhadhu that two proposals had been received from foreign entities regarding the establishment of a feline facility. However, the Minister did not disclose the nationality of the companies involved.
Last week, Shiyam stated that the evaluation of the cat island proposal was underway, describing it as a high-quality submission.
"There is interest in developing a cat island in the Maldives, and we have received a very good proposal. The evaluation process is currently ongoing. This is a proposal submitted by an international party," Shiyam said.
The Minister noted that given the large community of cat lovers, establishing a modern cat island with contemporary services in a country like the Maldives would likely attract international interest.
Currently, the 'Olhuhiya' pet shelter in Hulhumalé houses 281 cats, 35 of which were brought in just last month.
Shiyam added that efforts to renovate and expand the capacity of the Olhuhiya shelter are currently in progress. Once completed, the facility's capacity is expected to increase to 500 cats.
