Local telecommunications provider Ooredoo Maldives has slashed rates for international calls to major countries facing the novel coronavirus outbreak.

The telecom giant made the reveal via Twitter on Sunday, stating that they are enabling customers to get in touch with their family and friends residing in countries affected by the deadly coronavirus.

Extending prayers and well wishes to every one facing the global crisis, Ooredoo stated that they have slashed prices for international calls to China, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia.

As such, the rate has been reduced to MVR 1.50 per minute.

Said rate applies until 9 February, a Sunday, revealed the telecom giant.

China, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore are some of the countries where Maldivians travel very frequently, some having been residing there for years. These countries have large Maldivian communities, residing for educational purposes mostly. Thailand is a business hub for many Maldivians, with many travelling there for business purposes throughout the year.

While nine Maldivians were in Wuhan City, China where the epidemic emerged in December 2019, seven of them have been evacuated to New Delhi, India and are being kept under quarantine.

They will be brought back to Maldives after the required tests are done, revealed the government.