Dhivehi Observer Maldives News

2012 Is A Potentially Promising Year for the Whole Nation – Says President Nasheed in his first Radio Address of the Year

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 20:10:00 +0000

Speaking in his weekly radio address following the Government’s declaration of a ‘Duty Free Year’ and the successful initiation of “Aa Sandha”, President Mohamed Nasheed has said this year is emerging as a potentially promising year for the entire population of the country.

In his radio address, the President said that the central aim of "Aa Sandha" was not only improving the nation-wide affordability of healthcare to the general population, but also enhancing the quality of service offered to them. While discussing certain key components of “Aa Sandha”, President Nasheed said that the cumulative benefit of this recent scheme would augment the nation’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), along with easing the financial burden of the average Maldivian family and allowing the interaction of a host of positive socio-economic changes to culminate in higher standards of living.

The President said the whole nation would reap the harvest of decisive progress being made towards economic transformation this year. The government’s decision to introduce a ‘Duty Free Year’ would create financial stability and guarantee the permanence and continuity of a strong, viable institution that is adequately equipped to serve the nation and its economy.

As the new academic year begins on Sunday, 8th of January, the President extended a warm welcome to all entities involved in the education sector.

The President noted that 121 schools will operate as single session schools by the beginning of this year. The President further added that the number is expected to increase under government plans to convert all schools to single session schools. The President said that a collective total of 6 schools encompassed in Male’ City, Addu City and Kulhudhuffushi were prepared to adopt a new academic curriculum for the new year, and expressed his sanguine hopes for implementing the latest academic model next year.

The President further spoke on criminal offences committed against expatriate teachers. Speaking on the severity of the situation, President Nasheed stated that all teachers need to be given their due respect regardless of whether they are of local or foreign origin.

Mohamed Shihab appointed Minister of Finance and Treasury

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 15:31:00 +0000

Mohamed Shihab, a member of ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), has been appointed as Minister of Finance and Treasury by President Mohamed Nasheed. Shihab previously held the post of Political Advisor at the President’s Office.

He has also served as Minister of Home Affairs under the current administration. He has also served as Minister of Home Affairs under the current administration.

Presenting Shihab with his ‘Letter of Appointment’, President Nasheed emphasised his confidence in Shihab’s capability in executing the financial and economic reform policies of the country. more

Government Lifts Ban on Spas in Tourist Resorts and Hotels

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 15:15:00 +0000

The government today lifted the nationwide ban on spas and massage parlors, revoking a circular sent by the Tourism Ministry last week which ordered spas to cease operations.

Speaking to reporters this afternoon during a press conference held at Kurumba Maldives resort - the country's first resort, which began operations in 1972 - the President said that the government has requested the Supreme Court to advise whether spas are legal under the Maldives constitution.

The President said he has orderedto lift the ban on spas with immediate effect, while the country awaits the Supreme Court's verdict.

The President said he was confident all the institutions of state will realise the importance of placing national development first and will not act in a way that would damage the tourism industry.

The President reasserted his view that the vast majority of Maldivians reject religious extremism and want to continue the moderate form of Islam the Maldives has followed for the past 800 years.

The government's actions over the past few days follow an opposition rally in Male’ on 23 December aimed at "defending Islam". During that rally, all the major opposition parties in the country attacked the government’s religious credentials; many speakers went further, calling for the creation of an ‘Islamic state’ with the strict imposition of Sharia.

Following the rally, the government ordered the country’s spas closed.

Since the government’s ban on spas, the opposition parties - most of which are headed or heavily influenced by resort owners - quickly changed their positions and stated they do not support a ban on spas nor wish to damage the tourism industry.

“We wanted to impress upon everyone where the opposition’s demands were ultimately going to end,” the President explained on Wednesday.

The President said the government’s ultimatum “woke the nation from its slumber and sparked a healthy national debate about the future direction of the country.”

“The extremist demonstration on 23 December attracted a sizeable crowd. But their radical demands awoke the silent majority who categorically reject extremism,” the President said.

Govt. working on to include private clinics in health insurance scheme: President

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 15:51:00 +0000

The government is working on to set procedural standards for the inclusion of private clinics in the universal health insurance scheme "Aasandha", President Mohamed Nasheed announced this morning. http://www.haveeru.com.mv/news/39468

Budget will make 2012 'a year filled with happiness': President

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 15:50:00 +0000

The 2012 budget approved by the parliament will increase the people's income "by several folds," making it "a year filled with happiness" for the people, President Mohamed Nasheed said this morning. http://www.haveeru.com.mv/news/39467

Concern over Maldives spa 'prostitution' closures

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 15:40:00 +0000

Tourism operators in the Maldives have expressed concern over a government order to shut down all spas and health centres in resorts. The ban followed allegations by an opposition Islamist party that spas were being used for prostitution. Tourism is a key foreign exchange earner for the Maldives. read more

Finance Minister and State Finance Minister resign

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 17:49:00 +0000

Local media has reported that Finance Minister Ahmed Inaz submitted his resignation today following an incident in which he was caught by Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) activists while he was having a meeting with opposition Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) MP and half-brother of former President, Abdulla Yameen. read more

Tourism Ministry issues circular to close spas and massage parlors

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 17:46:00 +0000

After thousands of protesters gathered last Friday and demanded the government “close the spas and massage parlors and such places where prostitution is conducted”, the Tourism Ministry has today published a circular asking all the resorts to shut down their spas and massage parlors. read more

President of the Maldives says Sri Lankan security forces are being entrusted with a special task in maintaining law and order in the region

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 13:01:00 +0000

President of the Maldives Mohammed Nasheed says that the sri Lankan security forces have been successful in defeating the worlds most brutal terrorist organization. The Sri Lankan security forces have been entrusted with a enormous responsibility in maintaining law and order in the region.

The Maldivian leader made these remarks participating as chief guest at the passing out ceremony of trained cadet officials at the Diyathalawa Army training school this morning.

He further said that the Sri Lankan defence forces have a major role to play in apprehending rackets in human trafficking and battling sea pirates and illegal fishing activities. He also appreciated the contributions provided by the Sri Lankan army to train army officials.

There was a Maldivian cadet officials among the 194 officials who passed out as trained cadet officials.
Defence secretary Gotabaya Rajapakse and the army commander Lt.General Jagath Jayasooriya also attended the occasion.

The Commissioner General of examination reiterates that district based skills of the GCE advanced level examination will have no impact on university admission.

Commissioner General of Examinations Anura Edirisinghe says that the students need not be unnecessarily disturbed by the district based skills of the GCE advanced level examination.

The commissioner general participating in the Dasa Desin programme of the national radio this morning further said that the performances on the district level will not make any impact on university admission.

He further said that from next year district performances will not be released along with the GCE A/level examination results. Mr.Edirisinghe added that instead the overall island based performances will be released.

The commissioner general sternly rejected reports appearing in certain today’s newspapers that advanced level results were misplaced in certain instances.

Source: Sri Lanka Broadcasting Cooperation
Photos: http://www.adaderana.lk/news.php?mode=head&nid=1090

President Nasheed Calls for the Continuation of Moderate Islam, at Large Rally in Male’

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 18:42:00 +0000

President Nasheed addressed a rally of several thousand people in Male’ this afternoon and called on citizens to reject religious extremism and continue to support the “traditional form” of Islam that has been practiced in the Maldives for the past 800 years.

At a gathering at the Artificial Beach area of Male’, the President told the crowd that this was a defining moment in Maldivian history.

“At this moment we may not realise how important this gathering is, but years down the line we will look back and realise this was a crucial moment,” he said.

“This is an old country, people have lived here for thousands of years and we have practiced Islam for more than 800 years. In 2011, we are faced with a question, how should we build our nation: what we will teach our children; how should we live our lives; and what we will leave for future generations?”

“Citizens need to know what politicians stand for,” the President said. He called on opposition politicians, and all religious scholars, to state clearly where they stand on religious issues. The President stressed he wants to continue to practice a tolerant form of Islam.

The President said he believes Maldivians want: “a better life, the ability to travel, not to have to beg for medicines, for each Maldivian to be able to fend for themselves, feed their families and stand tall.”

“To build our economy we need foreign investments and we need to create an environment in which foreigners can invest. We can’t be scared of foreign countries; we can’t just stay within our shells without development. History shows this is the path to economic failure,” President Nasheed added.

“We can’t achieve development by going backwards to the Stone Age or being ignorant,” he said.

“Some people are saying that the government is going against religion because we won’t deviate from the traditional form of Islam.

“Should we ban music? Should we mutilate girls’ genitals? Should we allow nine year-olds to be married? Should we forbid art and drawing? Should we be allowed to take concubines? Is this nation building?” the President asked his opponents rhetorically.

The President concluded his speech by saying that the ruling Maldivian Democracy Party is clear where is stands; and that is with a moderate, tolerant form of Islam.

“I asked you to come here in support of the middle, tolerant path. And I believe that most citizens want to continue our traditional form of Islam,” the President said.

President Nasheed announces Universal Health Insurance Programme of 1 Lakh Rufiyaa

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 09:47:00 +0000

President Mohamed Nasheed has announced that starting next January, the government has ensured a new national health insurance programme, which will cover the costs of healthcare for the whole populace of the country on a sustainable basis. The President made this announcement at the launching ceremony of “Aa Sandha”, the universal health insurance programme of the government, under which, healthcare costs up to 100,000 rufiyaa will be covered by the government, per capita per year.

At the ceremony held this evening at the Artificial Beach, the President noted that providing affordable healthcare was one of the key pledges in the MDP manifesto, and said that the first step to establish a sustainable health insurance programme was to reform the country's financial system.

Speaking in this regard, President Nasheed said that the execution of the government's economic agenda had already begun, in order to provide social security to the people, through minimising the state's expenses and introducing Good and Services Tax, Income Tax, and Corporate Tax to be major contributors to the state income.

In his speech, the President stressed that "Aa Sandha" will not only bring to the people affordable healthcare, but also create a good competitive environment among the service providers, which will bringing to the people good quality service.

More information on www.aasandha.mv

Maldives ’ police arrest campaigner seeking religious tolerance and allow his attackers impunity

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 18:39:00 +0000

The authorities in the Maldives should release prisoner of conscience Ismail ‘Khilath’ Rasheed immediately and unconditionally. The government must provide him with compensation for his unlawful detention and ensure his safety and security.

Ismail ‘Khilath’ Rasheed organized and took part in what he called a “silent” demonstration in Malé, the capital, on 10 December, calling for religious tolerance in the Maldives. Some 30 other demonstrators took part.

As the “silent” demonstrators were holding their peaceful protest, about 10 men opposing their gathering attacked them. Ismail ‘Khilath’ Rasheed was hit with stones thrown by attackers and injured. He sustained a skull fracture and was taken to Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital for treatment.

Police arrested him several days later, on 14 December. Police said this was to “question” him about his involvement in the “silent” gathering, as “calling for anything against the constitution is illegal”.

Ismail ‘Khilath’ Rasheed’s arrest came after the opposition Adhaalath Party, which advocates Islamic Shari’a, wrote to the police urging them to take action against him for organizing the “silent” protest.

Under the 2008 Maldives constitution, Islam is the only religion that Maldivian nationals can practise. Ismail ‘Khilath’ Rasheed has said he is a Muslim of Sufi orientation and entitled to exercise his faith in peace and without discrimination.

Orthodox religious groups believe only one religious doctrine, which they consider to be Sunni Islam, is allowed under the constitution. They say Ismail ‘Khilath’ Rasheed’s call for religious tolerance in the Maldives is a challenge to that doctrine and therefore unconstitutional.

The continued detention of Ismail ‘Khilath’ Rasheed is in breach of international treaties on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which the Maldives is a state party.

Amnesty International is dismayed that instead of defending Ismail ‘Khilath’ Rasheed, who has peacefully exercised his right to freedom of the expression, the government of Maldives has detained him. Moreover, the government has taken no action to bring to justice those who attacked the “silent” demonstrators, even though there is credible photographic evidence of the attack.

This development is a clear example of the erosion of freedom of expression in the Maldives. This basic human right is not just under attack from some religious groups; it is also violated by the government of the Maldives.

All people in the Maldives should be able to enjoy their right to freedom of expression without being attacked or detained by the police.

Debate on religious freedom has been gathering pace in the Maldives in recent weeks. Orthodox religious groups opposed to freedom of religion have called a demonstration on 23 December to “protect” Islam.

President Nasheed has called for a counter demonstration on 23 December in defence of what he considers to be the prevalent and less restrictive cultural and Islamic values of the country. He said: “We all have been accustomed and have accepted moderate policies for our daily lives. I see that it is time for all those who support our traditional methods and believe that those methods are not wrong, to come out for their defense.”

Amnesty International calls on all parties to respect each other’s right to freedom of expression. The organization urges the police to ensure that peaceful demonstrators are protected against attacks and that no one taking part in such demonstrations is detained, or subjected to any other human rights violation.

Source: http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/asset/ASA29/001/2011/en/2df2ad52-efec-4978-81b1-89adf2018a28/asa290012011en.html

President Nasheed Defends Islam and Maldivian Culture, Condemns Violent Extremism Ahead of Protest

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 11:39:00 +0000

President Mohamed Nasheed has defended Islam and Maldivian culture and traditions, ahead of an opposition-backed religious protest on 23 December that has called for the “slaughter” of “anyone against Islam.”

During his weekly radio address on Friday, President Nasheed said that “in the name of protecting Islam, the real call of these religious protestors is to initiate the implementation of Islamic penalties such as stoning, amputations and execution in the Maldives.”

Speaking at a rally held on Saturday evening, the President also defended traditional cultural practices such as playing and listening to music. He also defended the role of women in society, noting that “women have been in the Maldivian workforce as long as men.”

The President said that political parties must publicly state which form of Islam they support: “the Islam we have been practicing in this country for several hundred years… or a new faction of Islam.” The President said that he wanted the traditional version of Islam to continue to be practiced in the Maldives.

Meanwhile, the organizers of the protest have been questioned by the Maldives Police Force after posting messages on the homepage of their official website, 23December.com, calling on people to “fight against all un-Islamic ideas”, “take the life” of anyone who challenged Islam “regardless of their party affiliation”, and “slaughter anyone against Islam”.

Protest organizers Sheikh Imran Abdullah, President of the Adhaalath Party, and Abdullah Mohamed, head of a coalition of religious NGOs, were questioned by police on 13 December.

The Adhaalath Party initially told local media that the violent messages were uploaded because of “a mistake on the [website] technical teams’ side.” However, senior Adhaalath Party member Shiekh Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed later said the messages of violence had been posted by “spies.”

Former President Gayoom’s Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM) is also heavily involved in planning the 23 December protest.

Press Secretary Mohamed Zuhair said on Monday: “Former President Gayoom, the Adhaalath Party and religious extremists are whipping up hatred, intolerance and xenophobia for political purposes. They hope to topple the government from the streets because they can’t defeat it through the ballot box.”

President’s Weekly Radio Address: “In the name of Protecting Islam, the Real Call of Religious Protestors is to initiate Implementation of Islamic Penalties such as Stoning, Hand-Cutting and Execution”

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 14:35:00 +0000

President Mohamed Nasheed has said that in the name of protecting Islam, the real call of these religious protestors is to initiate the implementation of Islamic penalties such as stoning, hand-cutting and execution in the Maldives. He made this statement while speaking in his weekly radio address delivered this morning on the issues of certain Islamic laws and commandments.

President Nasheed noted that in consideration of all its actions to date, it is evident that the State has a tradition of pardoning strict punishments for criminal offenses committed against the Islamic Law. However, he highlighted that in the exercise of penal flagellation, the Government has not exempted any convicts charged with adultery from punishment. Therefore, the President spoke on the urgent need to discern and decide on the validity of these controversial claims with regard to the Islamic Law.

Speaking in this regard, the President reaffirmed that all actions taken by the Government in matters involving Islamic Jurisprudence, the Government will base its course of action only on the consensus and counsel of Islamic scholars. The President also added that this was a decision taken by the ruling party MDP and that this policy will be followed through as had been decided.

The President emphasised the importance of reconsidering the penal code in light of the above propositions, and urged the Parliament to complete the task of establishing a new penal code during their next term. He expressed his full confidence in the collective capacity of the Parliament to bring legislative changes as beneficial to the nation and its people.

The President also expressed the need for clarity by all the political parties in outlining their positions on these controversial religious issues being tackled in today’s heated climate of socio-political concerns.

Design shortlist drawn up for Troon's Maldives Floating Island Project

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 19:57:00 +0000

The Dutch Docklands company, innovators in floating technology, have drawn up a shortlist of six design candidates for Troon Golf's Maldives Floating Island Project.

Presentations to the Dutch Docklands' board were made by the candidates, including Major champions and Ryder Cup legends, after the culmination of the Race to Dubai in the UAE.

The Royal Indian Ocean Club will be designed by one of the six candidates carefully chosen by the Dutch Docklands Group.

Design concepts, integration methods and environmental and sustainability outlines for the project have been put forward by some of the industry's most respected names.

A final decision will be made in conjunction with the Maldives government and operations will begin next year.

CEO of Dutch Docklands, Paul Van De Camp, said: "Each candidate has been required to follow a stringent set of guidelines integral to our joint venture initiative with the Maldives Government.
"We have created a dynamic model around tried and tested technologies, in order to provide a multi-dimensional solution for our partners."

Source: www.golf-monthly.co.uk

Cabinet decides to address Corruption Allegations against Government

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 21:19:00 +0000

The cabinet has today decided to set up a government entity to counteract the corruption allegations being charged against the government, by some members of the parliament, political parties, and individuals. The decision was made following discussions on the matter, at today’s cabinet meeting.

It was also decided that the Attorney General’s Office will monitor all the accusations made against the government, regarding corruption.

At today’s meeting, members noted that if, after a full investigation, the allegations were found to hold no grounds, the government will file defamation lawsuits against all accusing parties.

The cabinet has also decided to submit to the parliament, a bill on the establishment of a development bank in the Maldives. Members of the cabinet made the decision following deliberations on the necessity of a development bank in the country, to consistently carry out the developmental work in the many areas of the country.

“People who believe Sharia conflicts with Humans Rights are confused”- President Nasheed

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 09:48:00 +0000

President Mohamed Nasheed has said that those who believe that Sharia conflicts with fundamental human rights are clearly unable to comprehend or accept Sharia verdicts. The President made these remarks while speaking at the International Human Rights Day function held at Dharubaaruge last evening.

In his speech, President Nasheed said that the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Navanethem Pillay’s recent visit to Male’ was a great opportunity for us to have talks with the UN on a global platform, on human rights issues and Islamic Sharia. He also pointe

d out that our scholars lost the chance as they had reacted in a provocative and “Jihadi” manner, even calling to harm the High Commissioner.

The President noted that Islam stands for the dignity, honour, and nobility of mankind, on which Islamic Sharia is based on. However, he said that at times it is alleged that human rights contravene Islamic Sharia.

Speaking at the function, President Nasheed said that it was the rights of the people that the government executes a feasible economic policy, and that the purpose of introducing taxation to the Maldives was to deliver these rights to the people. He said that the government always works to uphold human rights.

Season of goodwill

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 09:03:00 +0000

MIND MATTER
By RAJA ZARITH IDRIS

If Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Isa (Jesus), a prophet respected and revered in Islam, is it so wrong to wish a blessed day for those who celebrate it?

DURING the days before Christmas last year, I wished my friends who were celebrating it “Merry Christmas” in much the same way they would wish me “Selamat Hari Raya” or “Happy Eid”.

I find it rather sad that such a simple greeting – one which I grew up with and which I have never regarded as something that would compromise or de-value my own faith – is now regarded as something so religiously incorrect for us Malaysian Muslims.

When I was at boarding school in England, I had to go to church every Sunday because it was part of the rules. My father advised me to consider it as part of my “education” and he had no doubt that the experience would strengthen rather than weaken my own faith.

Raja Zarith Sofia binti Sultan Idris Shah (born 14 August 1959) is the wife of Sultan Ibrahim Ismail of Johor. She was born a member of the Perak Royal Family. While still attending Oxford, she married the then-heir to the throne of Johor. Now a mother of six, she participates in the work of non-governmental organisations and universities, and writes a periodical column for a newspaper.

I was able to see the similarities and differences between Christianity and Islam. I learned more than the average Malaysian Muslim would about Christianity. I learnt that just as we Muslims categorise ourselves according to the four different schools of thoughts of the four Imams (Imam Malik, Imam Al Shafi, Imam Abu Hanifa and Imam Ahmad Abn Hambal) and are either Sunnis or Shias, so Christians too are divided into different sects or churches.

Going to church did not make me less of a Muslim when I was a young girl, and neither does saying “Merry Christmas” make me less of a Muslim now. My faith has not been shaken just because I wished some friends a time of joy with their families. Neither will I suddenly suffer from amnesia and forget what my religion is.

What I do not wish to forget, however, is that there are good, kind people who are not of the same faith as me.

As Harun Yahya, the Turkish writer (he was selected last year as one of the 500 most influential Muslims in the world by the Royal Islamic Strategic Studies Centre of Jordan) noted: “Islam is a religion of peace, love and tolerance.

Today, however, some circles have been presenting a false image of Islam, as if there were conflict between Islam and the adherents of the two other monotheistic religions. Yet Islam’s view of Jews and Christians, who are named ‘the People of the Book’ in the Quran, is very friendly and tolerant.

“This attitude towards the People of the Book developed during the years of the birth of Islam. At that time, Muslims were a minority, struggling to protect their faith and suffering oppression and torture from the pagans of the city of Mecca. Due to this persecution, some Muslims decided to flee Mecca and shelter in a safe country with a just ruler. The Prophet Muhammad told them to take refuge with King Negus, the Christian king of Ethiopia. The Muslims who followed this advice found a very fair administration that embraced them with love and respect when they went to Ethiopia. King Negus refused the demands of the pagan messengers who asked him to surrender the Muslims to them, and announced that Muslims could live freely in his country.

“Such attitudes of Christian people that are based on the concepts of compassion, mercy, modesty and justice, constitute a fact that God has pointed out in the Quran.”

I do not wish to be a self-centred Muslim who expects friends of other faiths to wish me Selamat Hari Raya or, for those who are not Malaysians and therefore do not know about Hari Raya, a Happy Eid and yet do not return their goodwill when it is Christmas, Chinese New Year, Deepavali or Vesak Day.

Every year, friends who are Christians, Buddhists, Hindus, Sikhs or those without any faith come to our home to celebrate Hari Raya with us. They do so with sincerity and as a mark of respect for one of the most important days in the Muslim calendar. Why should we not reciprocate their kindness, show them the same mark of respect for their religion and wish them the same joy on their holy days of celebration?

An Islamic scholar and lecturer also reminded me that as Muslims we must remember the importance of both the five Pillars of Islam and in the six Pillars of Iman (Faith), which are:

> Belief in Allah;

> Belief in the angels;

> Belief in the revealed Books (which include the Bible, the Torah and the Holy Quran);

> Belief in the Prophets (May Peace be Upon Them);

> Belief in the Resurrection and the events of Kiamah, the Day of Judgement; and

> Belief in the predestination (Qada’ and Qadar) by Allah in all things.

The prophets include not just Muhammad (May Peace Be Upon Him) as the last prophet and as the Messenger of Islam, but also in the 24 earlier ones who are mentioned in both the Bible and the Quran. Four of them are Ibrahim (Abraham), Musa (Moses), Daud (David), and Isa (Jesus).

So, if Christmas is the celebration of the birth of Isa (Jesus), a prophet respected and revered in Islam, is it so wrong to wish a blessed day for those who celebrate it?

We are now in the second decade of the 21st century. Surely, we should, now more than ever, be far more enlightened at a time when information of any sort and of all kinds are so readily available to us.

What is most important is that we regard one another as fellow citizens and treat each other with respect, regardless of our race or religion.

> The writer is Royal Fellow, School of Language Studies and Linguistics, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), and holds a BA (Honours) degree in Chinese Studies, University of Oxford.

> The write is

Source: The Star Online, Malaysia

SANSaC Male’ Statement on Climate Change and Security

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 16:54:00 +0000

The South Asia Network of Climate Change and Security, having met in Male’ on the 1^st of December 2011 to discuss opportunities and challenges related to climate change and security in South Asia, offer the following views to the Parties and Governments of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Acknowledging the heightened risk of political instability and conflict related to climate change;

Noting that the factors linking climate change to an increased potential for instability and conflict include water scarcity, accelerated land degradation, increased food insecurity and the management of climate funds;

Believing that enhancing trust, cooperation and coordination amongst key South Asian stakeholders on climate change related security issues can also be a step towards greater trust and cooperation on other conflict issues;

The South Asia Network for Climate Change and Security therefore:

1. Calls on governments to facilitate ‘decentralised water diplomacy’ that involves a broader group of stakeholders at local level, and particularly across the region.

2. Calls on governments and international institutions to better understand the dynamics and diverse causal factors of climate related migration, to promote timely, peace positive governance of rural-urban and trans-boundary migration.

3. Calls on governments to take leadership on improving rural and urban food security, in particular to ensure climate sensitive food production, equitable distribution and sustainable consumption.

Members:

1. Major General Muniruzzaman, President, Bangladesh Institute for Peace and Security Studies.

2. Mr. Ahmed Shafeeq Moosa, President’s Envoy for Science and Technology, Government of the Maldives.

3. Dr. Bishnu Upreti, South Asia Regional Coordinator, National Centre for Competence in Research, Nepal.

4. Dr. Moazzam Ali Khan, Director, Institute of Environmental Studies, University of Karachi, Pakistan.

5. Ms. Lydia Powell, Head, Centre for Resources Management, Observer Research Foundation, India.

6. Mr. Johann Rebert, Country Representative, International Alert, Sri Lanka.

7. Dr. Markus Mayer, South Asia Regional Programme Manager, International Alert.

SANSaC Roundtable in Male’ highlights implications of climate change for regional and national security, ahead of high level talks at CoP 17 in Durban

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 16:49:00 +0000

Stories of the citizens from the disappearing islands of the Maldives, flood-affected communities in the Sundarbans of Bangladesh and the drought affected communities in the water scarce hills of Nepal, all in their own ways struggling to cope with the impacts of climate change, are increasingly permeating mainstream consciousness within those countries whose carbon intensive development over the past 100 years has been contributing to these situations. At the same time, international donors from these developed countries are creating new aid funds in an attempt to help the vulnerable cope with the impacts of climate change we are already feeling.

With the next round of high level global climate change talks starting in Durban this week, the high profile issues for agreement are about reducing carbon emissions and – more importantly for the affected communities – how much money the developed countries, who have the main responsibility for global warming, will put on the negotiating table to help people in poorer countries cope with the consequences. But these are not the only important issues.

One issue that is barely acknowledged is the heightened risk of political instability and conflict related to climate change. Factors linking climate change to an increased potential for instability and conflict include water scarcity, accelerated land degradation, increased food insecurity, and indeed the management of the climate funds themselves. The meeting of the South Asian Network on Security and Climate Change (SANSaC) in Male’ on the 1st December brought together experts from the climate change and security community to initiate a much needed regional dialogue on these issues.

The roundtable was organised in collaboration with the President’s Office of the Government of the Maldives and International Alert (an international peacebuilding organisation). The event was supported by the British High Commission in Colombo, Sri Lanka.

The dialogue was inaugurated by the Vice President of the Maldives, Dr. Mohamed Waheed, who will lead the Maldivian delegation to CoP 17 in Durban. SANSaC members from the Bangladesh Institute for Peace and Security Studies, the National Centre for Competence in Research in Nepal, the University of Karachi in Pakistan, the Observer Research Foundation in India and International Alert also spoke at the event. Mr. Ahmed Shafeeq Moosa, the President’s Envoy for Science and Technology, outlined the Maldivian Climate Change policy and advocacy outreach. Significantly, the event also marked the establishment of the SANSaC Secretariat in Male’, with the full support of the Maldivian Government.

At the conclusion of the event SANSaC members issued a statement outlining key issues for advocacy during the high level talks at CoP 17 in Durban.

The SANSaC network was formed in March 2010 with the main objective of ensuring that climate change interventions minimise and pro-actively address the potentials for conflict and insecurity in high-risk climate change contexts.

SANSaC members briefing the Maldivian Vice President before the meeting

The delegates from Pakistan, Nepal, India and Bangladesh with the Dr Waheed, the Maldivian Vice President, Mr Ahmed Shafeeq Moosa, President’s Envoy for Science & Technology and International Alert

Session chaired by Mr Ahmed Shafeeq Moosa

The roundtable in session

“Regional Collaboration is Crucial to Key Developments in Security Risks Caused by Climate Change Affects,” Vice President

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 16:27:00 +0000

Vice President Dr. Mohamed Waheed has said that regional collaboration is crucial to key developments in security risks related to adverse and unusual affects caused by climate change within the South Asian region. The Vice President made this statement while speaking at “Security Implications of Climate Change” held by South Asia Network for Security and Climate Change (SANSaC) at Trader’s Hotel, this morning.

During his speech, the Vice President stated that the adverse affects of climate change is a threat not only to the individual country, but contributively to the whole South Asian region. The Vice President further said that climate change continues to threaten the vulnerability of the Maldives and that regional cooperation was required for the survival of small island states. In particular, the Vice President emphasized on problematic areas of coastal area destruction and the limitation of fresh water and water resources faced by island nations.

Maldives participate in the 1st UN Expert Meeting on Human Space Technology

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 12:15:00 +0000

18 Nov – KL - The 1st United Nations Expert Meeting On Human Space Technology, under the UN Human Space Technology Initiative (HSTI), jointly organized by UN and Malaysian government was held in Putrajaya, Malaysia from 14-18th November 2011.

Mr. Ahmed Shafeeq Moosa, the President’s Envoy for Science & Technology, participated in the expert meetings and made representation highlighting the current telemedicine network being developed in the Maldives, in addition to the importance of telemetry and earth observation as well as advance communication applications, which has enormous potential for the sustainable development of the Maldives.

“There are a number of applications in Human Space Technology that can be extremely beneficial to the Maldives, in particular, telemedicine and telemetry. Going forward, the global community at large, will achieve medical and technological advances from these scientific endeavours. It is vital that we remain engaged in these initiatives,” said the Maldives Science & Technology Envoy.

The United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), under the framework of the United Nations Programme on Space Applications, launched the Human Space Technology Initiative (HSTI) with the objective to promote international cooperation in human spaceflight and space exploration-related activities.

HSTI will provide information to UN Member States about the International Space Station (ISS), its management structure, research facilities, utilization activities, and opportunities to cooperate with ISS partners, the use of ISS for educational outreach programmes; and examples of past cooperation activities. HSTI will also provide information about opportunities to build indigenous capacity in microgravity science education and research.

The objective is to create a platform for greater understanding of the potential of the ISS and the research currently being conducted on the ISS among UN Member States, provide opportunities to Non-ISS Members for collaborative research leading to a larger number of countries benefiting from human spaceflight activities.

With its unique microgravity environment, the International Space Station (ISS) is an ideal platform for engaging students by increasing their excitement and interest in space science, and technology in general. HSTI will emphasise the importance of the ISS as an educational platform and will aim to increase education outreach, and capacity building activities in developing nations.

The 5 day expert meeting held in Putrajaya, Malaysia, concluded on Friday deriving 10 specific recommendations on how to improve cooperation between UN Member Countries and increase awareness of the potential of the research and applications being conducted in Human Space Technology.

The UN Expert Meeting on Human Space Technology, is hosted by the Institute of Space Science (ANGKASA), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, co-organised by Canadian Space Agency (CSA), European Space Agency (ESA), Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA), National Aeronautics and Space Agency (NASA) Russian Federal Space Agency (ROSCOSMOS), in cooperation with Astronautic Technology Sdn Bhd (ATSB®), National Space Agency of Malaysia (ANGKASA), Universiti Malaysia Pahang (UMP).

Source - The President's Office

President opens Cultural Centre in Hithadhoo

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 20:44:00 +0000

President Mohamed Nasheed has today opened a cultural centre in Hithadhoo of Addu City, which exhibits different aspects of the Maldivian culture and tradition.

Prior to the opening of the Hithadhoo Cultural Centre, the President attended Eid prayers in Feydhoo this morning. Following the prayers President Nasheed toured Feydhoo and Maradhoo, and extended Eid greetings to the people of the islands.

President Nasheed later attended a breakfast organized in Maradhoo on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha. The President also cut a special cake at the breakfast, to celebrate the upcoming SAARC Summit.

In an interview given to Adduonline, the President said that the establishment of infrastructure in Addu City is being carried out in varying stages of a larger developmental scheme. The President gave this interview while taking part in the Addu City State Square Cleaning programme this afternoon.

The President and the First Lady also took a bicycle tour of the Hithadhoo main road this afternoon, following the completion of the construction of the road.

“Impeccable Preparations for SAARC Summit show the Capability of Addu Citizens” - President Nasheed

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Fri, 04 Nov 2011 16:34:00 +0000

President Mohamed Nasheed has said that the impeccable preparations for the SAARC Summit show that the patriotic citizens of Addu City are capable of representing the whole country.

The President made this remark while speaking on the final preparations currently underway in Addu City for the SAARC Summit, in his weekly radio address delivered this morning. The President also expressed his gratitude to the people of Addu City, Maldives National Defence Force and Maldives Police Service for their cooperative work.

President Nasheed highlighted the establishment of the first airport in the island of Fuvahmulah last week. He said that this airport is a symbol of national service, determination, strength and high national spirits of the people of Fuvahmulah.

In his radio address, the President also underlined the success of the Second Chance programme initiated by the government, which is a rehabilitation and reintegration programme for youth undergoing criminal prosecution. Noting that 330 offenders have already been released under the reintegration programme, President Nasheed said that 149 people released were currently successfully employed, and that 13 were taking part in various skill development programmes under “Hunaru”.

The President also spoke on the significance of performing the Hajj Pilgrimage, highlighting this year’s Hajj Day which will be marked tomorrow, 5 November.

Source: The President's Office, Maldives

Technical Problem with Dhivehi Observer site

noreply@blogger.com (Dhivehi Observer) — Sat, 22 Oct 2011 22:56:00 +0000

We have recently had some technical issues with our sites, including the main news website www.dhivehiobserver.com; We are currently in the process of moving the site to a new server, which will be completed soon.

In the meantime, please note that our associated sites, such as www.maldivesobserver.com and www.newmaldives.com will all be operating as normal.

We are also on www.Facebook.com/dhivehiobserver

and www.twitter.com/dhivehiobserver