Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources Ahmed Shiyam has stated that we need to work on protecting the oceans and sustainably increasing the benefits derived from them. The Minister said this in a special interview given to PSM News during the “Ocean Fest” festival held to mark World Oceans Day. Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources Ahmed Shiyam said that the main purpose of “Ocean Fest” is to familiarize as many people as possible with the ocean. The Minister also said it is important for the current generation to experience this and for it to continue for future generations as well. The Minister stated that we need to think about protecting the oceans and sustainably increasing the benefits derived from them.
The Minister of Fisheries said that the President strongly encourages the celebration of World Oceans Day. He also noted that a lot of work is being done to address the current state of the Maldivian fishing industry and the challenges it faces. The Minister also mentioned that special emphasis is being given to training people in the field of marine research.
“The President strongly emphasizes making decisions for the Maldives based on research. When we deal with ocean-related matters, we also look at it through research-based work. In fact, even when we make a decision, we try to base it on research,” said Minister Ahmed Shiyam.
One of the most important activities carried out during Ocean Fest was “Discover Dive,” aimed at giving children the opportunity to experience the beauty of the ocean. This activity was conducted to allow children to experience diving. A total of 40 children participated in this activity, observing and experiencing the beauty of the ocean. All participants and those who assisted in this activity were awarded certificates.
Children who participated in the “Discover Dive” activity reported seeing various types of corals and beautiful fish. They also mentioned that having this opportunity to experience was a very joyful thing. “We saw very beautiful corals. There are also pretty fish. I’m very happy to have gotten the chance to dive,” noted a child who participated in Discover Dive. In addition to the Minister, the Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives also participated in this activity.
Many stalls were set up at Ocean Fest to conduct various ocean-related activities. The festival saw participation from the ministry, government agencies, businesses, environmental NGOs, and food vendors.
