The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources hosted ‘Moodhu Fest’ on June 21 to mark World Oceans Day, drawing dozens of families to Dhiraagu Beach for a day of marine conservation activities.

The event featured educational stalls, interactive exhibits, and diving sessions aimed at raising public awareness of sustainable fishing and ocean protection. Government institutions, environmental NGOs, businesses, and food vendors took part in the festival, offering activities and materials focused on marine biodiversity and responsible resource use.

A key highlight was the ‘Discover Dive’ experience, conducted in partnership with local dive centres. Forty children participated in supervised underwater sessions introducing them to coral reefs and marine life. All participants and facilitators received certificates and mementoes.

Senior officials, including the Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources and the Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives, attended the event. The Ministry said the festival is part of broader efforts to engage the public in ocean conservation and promote sustainable maritime practices.

Preserving marine heritage and addressing challenges in the fisheries sector remain key policy priorities, the Ministry added.