President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has announced sweeping regulatory reforms to prohibit safari vessels from anchoring near inhabited islands and to introduce enforceable standards on tourist behaviour, framing the measures as necessary to protect social values, public order, and community wellbeing.
The President made the remarks while speaking at the inauguration of the new headquarters of the People’s National Congress in Malé tonight, addressing a large gathering of party supporters.
He said regulations will be amended to require safari vessels to remain at least one kilometre away from inhabited islands, citing growing complaints over the illegal sale of alcohol and other illicit activities linked to safaris anchored close to local tourism islands.
According to President Muizzu, local councils will play a central role in enforcing the revised rules through day-to-day monitoring. However, he cautioned that effective enforcement depends on councils that align with government policies and Islamic values, warning that a lack of cooperation could allow harmful activities to go unchecked.
“We envision a society free from alcohol, drugs, and other destructive vices,” the President said, adding that ideologies promoting actions contrary to Islam have no place in a country that is constitutionally one hundred percent Islamic.
The President also revealed that forthcoming regulatory amendments will introduce clear dress codes and behavioural standards for tourists staying on inhabited islands. While reaffirming strong government support for local tourism as a key economic driver, he noted that feedback gathered during recent island visits highlighted growing religious, moral, and social concerns within communities.
He said draft amendments addressing tourist conduct in residential areas have already been prepared and will be gazetted in the near future.
President Muizzu further expressed concern that certain acts prohibited under Islamic principles are not currently classified as criminal offences under the Penal Code. While efforts are underway to address these legal gaps, he said opposition criticism has slowed reform.
Concluding his remarks, the President stressed that meaningful national reform requires aligning laws, institutions, and public attitudes with the country’s core values, stating that progress can only be achieved by guiding society toward what he described as the right path.
