Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has highlighted the importance of the ocean to the lives and customs of Maldivians, stating that priority must be given to maximising ocean benefits and conducting ocean-related research.
In a message released on the occasion of World Oceans Day, the Minister stated that while over 99 percent of the Maldives is ocean, it is also the economic hub.
Challenges of Climate Change
The theme for this year's World Oceans Day is "REIMAGINE: Beyond the world we know, a new relationship with our ocean". Highlighting this theme, the Minister said that the global economic situation and conflicts in the Middle East have posed significant challenges to the Maldivian economy.
Specifically, the Minister noted that climate change has caused ocean temperatures to rise, leading fish to migrate to distant areas, which has created major challenges for the fishing industry.
Government's Aim to Diversify the Economy
The aim of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's government is to expand new areas such as aquaculture to increase the benefits derived from ocean resources. In this regard, the Minister noted that seaweed aquaculture has been introduced to the Maldives, and the first shipment has been exported.
Furthermore, the Minister stated that a green signal has been received for a new project to produce seaweed products with the assistance of the FAO, and discussions are underway to formulate an additional project with the assistance of the Japanese government.
Importance of Scientific Research
Noting that obtaining comprehensive scientific information to protect the oceans during this "Ocean Decade" is a global effort, the Minister called on Maldivians to work at the forefront of this endeavor.
Highlighting that protecting marine life and reefs and passing this wealth on to future generations is the responsibility of every Maldivian, the Minister concluded his message by urging the sustainable use of ocean resources.
June 8 of every year is marked as World Oceans Day. This day is observed to bring global attention to the immense benefits and importance of oceans to life. The main purpose is to discuss the environmental threats facing the oceans and the damage caused by climate change, and to encourage everyone to work together internationally to protect the oceans.
