Minister for Fisheries and Marine Resources Ahmed Shiyam has announced that the government’s goal is to transition fishing vessels to renewable energy.
Minister Shiyam made these remarks during a World Ocean Day event in Villimale’, attended by Climate Change, Environment, and Energy Minister Thoriq Ibrahim, and Sports and Health Minister Abdulla Rafiu. Highlighting the significance of the ocean, Shiyam emphasised the need for sustainable practices in the fisheries sector.
“With 99 percent of the country’s area covered by the sea, our nation heavily relies on marine resources. A lot needs to be done to increase profits from the sea while ensuring sustainability,” said Shiyam. He underscored the importance of renewable energy in fishing operations, particularly for fish processing vessels.
The minister also emphasised individual responsibility in protecting reefs and marine life, stating that every child should be committed to safeguarding the environment for future generations.
The event, titled “Discover Dive,” was organized by the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources to introduce children to swimming and scuba diving. Over 50 students participated, experiencing the underwater beauty and sharing their excitement.
One student shared, “I’m so glad I got to do the real dive. Seeing some really beautiful corals, fishes of different colours was a very different experience.”
The Ministry stated that the primary objective of the event was to foster a love and interest in the marine environment among children, highlighting the beauty and importance of ocean life.
