In a major bid to resolve persistent ice shortages across the national fishing fleet, the Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources has signed a contract with Malaysia's Altus Oil & Gas Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. to design, build, and equip 30-tonne capacity ice plants across 11 selected islands.
The agreement was officially signed during a ceremony held at Maagiri Hotel, with State Minister Mohamed Muththalib signing on behalf of the Ministry.
Targeted Islands for the Infrastructure Expansion:
HA. Dhidhdhoo
HDh. Kulhudhuffushi
Sh. Komandoo
K. Gaafaru
AA. Rasdhoo
M. Mulah
Dh. Hulhudheli
GA. Nilandhoo
GA. Villingili
GA. Maamendhoo
GDh. Rathafandhoo
According to technical specifications released by the Fisheries Ministry, the project will be executed under a comprehensive Design and Build model. Each facility will feature a daily production capacity of 30 tonnes of tube ice, integrated with a specialized seawater cooling mechanism engineered specifically for the Maldives' maritime climate.
Under the scope of work, Altus Oil & Gas will oversee all engineering coordination, procurement of specialized equipment, site construction, installation, testing, and final operational commissioning. Additionally, the Malaysian company will provide warranty support and structured after-sales services in compliance with state regulations.
The government highlighted that expanding regional ice production and cold chain infrastructure remains a cornerstone of its national fisheries framework, aimed at cutting down transit time and operational expense for fishermen seeking ice to preserve catch quality at sea.
