Minister of Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts Ibrahim Waheed has revealed that work has begun to formulate regulations to provide state budget assistance to media outlets, following a pledge by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
Speaking at a meeting with media editors, Minister Waheed said that the ministry has convened with heads from online and print media to outline the funding regulations. He also said that future discussions with television station heads are also planned.
Additionally, Minister Waheed emphasised that the government's budget allocation policy for the media aims to foster a self-reliant and independent media sector in the Maldives. He also said that the initiative seeks to elevate journalism as a respected profession, free from domination by specific groups, and to promote a free press. He further mentioned that the Parliament will include state funds for media outlets in the upcoming year's budget.
In addition to financial support, the government is working on establishing a media village to create an optimal environment for media operations.