‘Cat Island’ to be developed for feline care

Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam, on Tuesday, announced that the government is working to develop a dedicated 'Cat Island’ for feline care.

Speaking at a press conference held at the President’s Office, Shiyam noted that developing such an island would require significant expenditure, prompting the government to seek interested parties to undertake the project. He revealed that several parties, including an international entity, have expressed interest and submitted proposals.

The Minister said the submitted proposals are currently under evaluation.

“An international party has submitted a proposal. We hope this project becomes a highly successful initiative that brings joyful news to the pet community,” the Minister noted.

Shiyam further emphasized that establishing an island equipped with modern facilities in a country such as the Maldives would attract considerable interest from the international community.

Acknowledging the significant public concern over the growing stray cat population in the Greater Malé Area, the Minister added that efforts to expand the “Olhuhiyaa” pet shelter in Hulhumalé Phase 2 are also progressing rapidly.

While the facility currently accommodates 280 cats, Shiyam said the planned expansion would increase its capacity to approximately 500 cats.

The “Olhuhiyaa” facility, established to address the stray cat issue in the capital region, was inaugurated by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on November 2, 2024.

The facility includes a quarantine area, clinic, laboratory, veterinary pharmacy, and dedicated living spaces for the cats.