Public Service Media (PSM) has shortlisted the top five nominees in six categories for its ‘Chaalu Dhivehi Raajje Award’.
The Chaalu Dhivehi Raajje Award is a national initiative designed to honour local islands that excel in environmental stewardship, cultural preservation, and sustainable community development. It aims to foster civic pride, encourage sustainable lifestyles rooted in local tradition, and boost island‑based tourism by showcasing exemplary community achievements at a national level.
Speaking at the ceremony announcing the top five nominees for each category, PSM’s Managing Director Ahmed Shakeeb said the programme seeks to highlight not only the natural beauty of beaches and seas, but also the stories and achievements of local communities.
A total of 50 islands applied across the six categories, with 14 islands from 11 atolls advancing to the second round of the awards. In the second round, judges will visit the nominated islands and assess and grade their community-led work in their nominated category.
- Most Beautiful Beach
* Guraidhoo Beach, K Guraidhoo
* Hinnavaru Reethi Beach, Lh Hinnavaru
* Ukulhas Natural Beach, AA Ukulhas
* Mathiveri Beach, AA Mathiveri
* Mandhoo Thundi, ADh Mandhoo
- Most Responsible Island in Local Tourism
* AA Ukulhas
* AA Mathiveri
* B Kudarikilu
* ADh Dhigurah
* ADh Dhan’gethi
- Cleanest and Most Environmentally Friendly Island
* AA Mathiveri
* B Kudarikilu
* Dh Rinbidhoo
* AA Ukulhas
* V Keyodhoo
- Innovative Thinking in Sustainable Development
* AA Ukulhas
* B Kudarikilu
* ADh Dhan’gethi
* AA Mathiveri
* Fuvahmulah City
- Friendliest Community
* HDh Naavaidhoo
* B Kudarikilu
* AA Ukulhas
* AA Mathiveri
* V Keyodhoo
- Most Pleasant Island Destination
* Kandu Jetty, R Rasgetheemu
* Naivaadhoo Hoholha Underwater Cave, HDh Naivaadhoo
-* Mathiveri Finolhu, AA Mathiveri
* Hithadhoo Kulhi, L Hithadhoo
* Handhu Dhan’gethi, ADh Dhan’gethi
Winners will be determined with 60 percent judges’ scores and 40 percent public votes. Public voting will open soon, and the awards ceremony is expected to be held before the end of 2026.