Minister of Fisheries, Marine Resource, and Agriculture Dr. Hussain Rasheed Hassan has stated the Maldives has a responsibility towards protecting its ocean territory. He made the remarks while inaugurating the 7th Maldives Marine Expo 2021 at Hullhumale' Central Park.
Speaking at the event, Minister Hassan noted the Maldives has a vast ocean territory which is crucial for the fisheries sector and the tourism industry. The minister said Maldivians should become more aware of how they are responsible for using and managing ocean resources. He said any individual who uses the ocean in some way, including travellers and divers, should educate themselves on the importance of the ocean. He added that recreational divers should also be aware of how plastic waste damages the environment.
Furthermore, Minister Hassan said the expo is an important venue for Maldivians to be informed on ocean sustainability.
The National Boating Association of Maldives (NBAM) began the Maldives Marine Expo on December 13 to showcase a wider variety of products from the Maldives marine industry. President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih launched the Life Jacket - Wear it campaign on the first day of the expo.
The association stated the aim of the campaign is to make people more aware of the impact of their behaviour and alert individuals on the increased likelihood of severe injury or fatality if safety equipment is not on board or not used properly.