Government launches project to develop dedicated island for cats
1 ސެޕްޓެމްބަރު 2026 | އަންގާރަ 10:11Minister Shiyam has announced that the government is currently reviewing proposals from foreign investors to develop a dedicated island sanctuary for cats. Recognizing that the project requires significant investment, the government believes establishing such a facility with modern amenities would garner international attention; however, officials noted that achieving a permanent solution to the stray cat population remains a complex challenge.
Stray cats on the streets of Male'. | RaajjeMV
Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam has announced that the government is currently working on developing a dedicated "Cat Island" for feline care.
Speaking at a press conference held at the President's Office, Minister Shiyam stated that the development of a dedicated island for cats would be a welcome development for the Maldives' pet community.
The Minister stated that since developing an island for cat care is a high-cost undertaking, efforts have been made to find interested parties for the project. In this regard, the Minister noted that several parties, including international entities, have expressed interest and submitted proposals to develop the island.
Minister Shiyam stated that the proposals are currently in the evaluation stage. He further expressed his hope that the project would prove to be a highly successful initiative.
The Minister noted that operating such an island with modern facilities would garner significant interest from the international community.
The Minister did not disclose further details regarding the implementation process of the project.
Despite President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s administration establishing a dedicated ministry for animal welfare and operating it as a standalone entity for two years, no effective solutions have been found for major issues such as the stray cat population. Furthermore, concerns have surfaced regarding the mismanagement of the cat facility in Hulhumalé. Although the facility was constructed by the Malé City Council and subsequently handed over to the Ministry of Agriculture, reports suggest it is not being maintained to an acceptable standard.
