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62 years of broadcasting excellence: celebrating the Voice of Maldives
29 Dec 2024
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Photo: PSM News
For over six decades, the Voice of Maldives has stood as a trusted companion to the people of the nation, shaping the cultural and informational landscape since its inception in 1962.
As the country celebrates 62 years of its pioneering broadcast service, the legacy of the Voice of Maldives continues to resonate deeply with generations of Maldivians.
The journey began on December 29, 1962, with the launch of Male’ Radio, marking the birth of the country’s first radio station. For the first time, Maldivians heard their own language broadcast over the airwaves—a milestone that shattered the scepticism that a local radio service was unattainable.
The inaugural broadcast, lasting just over four minutes, was transmitted using a modest "Dolphin 3" radio telephone set. Despite the limitations of the era, it laid the foundation for a new era of communication and information sharing in the Maldives.
Male’ Radio rapidly expanded, driven by the dedication of its team and the enthusiasm of its audience. By 1964, operations had been transferred to the Cinema Company, with the service renamed Seneco Radio. On March 6, 1965, the broadcast schedule extended to 16 uninterrupted hours daily, thanks to locally crafted transmitters inspired by the ingenuity of a Sri Lankan engineer.
The station underwent further transformation in 1966, becoming a government-run entity under the name Maldives Island Broadcasting Service. Subsequently renamed Radio Maldives in 1969, it was rebranded as the Voice of the Maldives in 1980, a name that has endured as a symbol of trust and connection.
The 1980s marked a golden age for the Voice of Maldives, with its services reaching new heights. Equipped with advanced transmitters, the station provided crystal-clear coverage across the nation. By 2005, the service was operating round the clock, delivering a rich variety of programmes including news, religious content, sports updates, and entertainment.
Throughout its history, the Voice of Maldives has been a beacon of support during pivotal moments in the country’s history. From the coverage of the 1988 attempted coup to providing crucial updates during the 2004 tsunami, the station has played a vital role in uniting and informing the nation during times of crisis.
Now operating under the umbrella of Public Service Media (PSM), the Voice of the Maldives continues to uphold its mission of serving the public. Its contributions in promoting education, public awareness, and national pride are unmatched, cementing its status as a cherished institution.
As the Maldives commemorates 62 years of this enduring service, the Voice of Maldives remains more than just a broadcaster—it is a cultural treasure, deeply intertwined with the lives and memories of its people.
From its modest beginnings to its current status as a national icon, the Voice of the Maldives exemplifies the power of broadcasting to bridge gaps, foster unity, and celebrate the heart and soul of a nation.
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