The National News Agency (NNA) has officially launched a new platform aimed at bolstering the Maldivian media landscape by providing free, high-quality content and fostering the growth of private media outlets.
The landmark initiative, spearheaded by the President’s Office, the Ministry of Youth Empowerment, Information and the Arts, and Public Service Media (PSM), seeks to enhance reporting capabilities and broaden opportunities for local journalists and media outlets.
The NNA's logo, website, and official accreditation cards were unveiled at a ceremony by President's Office Spokesperson Heena Waleed, the Minister of State for Youth Empowerment, Information and Arts Ali Shamaan, and PSM Managing Director Ibrahim Nasreen.
Immediately following the launch, agreements were signed with 20 private media organisations, including Jeelu Online, Javiyani, Miadhu Daily, and Sangu TV, who became the inaugural members to join the platform and receive their cards.
Speaking at the event, State Minister Shamaan highlighted that the platform would facilitate a conducive environment for local journalists, offering raw files of high-quality video and photos from various events covered by PSM, and eventually, content from other media outlets.
"Registered online and broadcast media will get a lot of content for free. This is an opportunity to disseminate news and information responsibly," he stated.
PSM Managing Director Ibrahim Nasreen reiterated the commitment to strengthening private media, confirming the free release of extensive content, including raw footage of incidents and disasters, while also planning premium packages and discussions to share content from international media partners.
Nasreen added that the opportunity to participate in the NNA would remain open to other media outlets, with future plans including various training programmes through the Ministry and the Maldives Media Institute, alongside opportunities for international media events.