The island council in Baa Fulhadhoo has decided to fine guesthouses if their guests violate rules related to swimwear.

After discussions, the council decided to fine guesthouses MVR 750. The council would monitor to see if tourists violate the rules.

The council said the decision was taken after numerous complaints and after failing to solve the issue of tourists dressing in violation of public standards.

An e-petition was earlier submitted to the parliament to stop tourists and foreigners from wearing bikinis in public places in local islands.

The petition, filed by Zamzam Farish on February 9, has so far received support from more than 1,359 people.

According to the ruling People's National Congress (PNC)'s amendment to the rules of procedure, a petition must be signed by 500 people.

The petition said that the presence of foreigners and tourists in bikinis in public areas of local islands is destroying Islamic morality and the noble culture.

Meanwhile, President Mohamed Muizzu said in January that the standards for tourist hotels and guesthouses operating in local islands will be tightened.