The fifth forum of the ‘Ahaa’ series, an initiative designed to directly address public concerns, took place on Monday night at Public Service Media (PSM).

Five Ministers participated in the forum, offering updates and responding to key issues within their respective portfolios. The Ministers in attendance were Ali Ihusaan, Minister of Homeland Security and Technology; Ahmed Shiyam, Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources; Dr Ismail Shafeeu, Minister of Education; Dr Maryam Mariya, Minister of Agriculture and Animal Welfare; and Uz Ahmed Usham, Attorney General.

Minister Ihusaan spoke on the Government’s ongoing efforts to combat illicit drug trafficking and abuse. Emphasising the dismantling of trafficking networks operating under the guise of legitimate businesses, he reassured the public that decisive action is underway.

He also provided an update on the investigation into the recent rooftop incident in Malé, noting that police are making progress based on available evidence. In a related development, the Minister announced a change in policy requiring mandatory autopsies in all cases of suspicious deaths.

He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to protecting children and rebuilding public trust in the police.

Minister Shiyam highlighted challenges faced by those in the fisheries sector, outlining initiatives aimed at resolving the ongoing ice shortage, including the establishment of land-based ice plants and Refrigerated Sea Water (RSW) systems.

He also reported on progress in developing fish processing facilities in Gaafu Dhaalu Fiyoari, Faafu Nilandhoo, and Lhaviyani Felivaru, noting that the Economic Council has approved the signing of an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction contract, with completion expected within the next two years.

Meanwhile, Minister Dr Shafeeu reaffirmed that inclusive education remains a top priority, particularly for students with special needs.

He stated that there are no immediate plans to revise existing policies, which were formulated following broad consultation. He added that the Ministry is preparing to evaluate the overall quality of the education system to support continuous improvement.

Addressing issues related to agriculture and food security, Minister Dr Mariya spoke about challenges caused by crows and bats, stressing the importance of coexisting with them. She outlined the Government’s ‘Five Million Trees Project’ as a key initiative to mitigate such concerns.

The Minister also noted the Ministry’s commitment to use smart technology to strengthen national food security, alongside ongoing efforts to educate farmers and manage plant diseases more effectively.

Attorney General Uz Ahmed Usham provided an update on the Asset Recovery Bill, noting that the draft, encompassing both civil and criminal provisions, is expected to be submitted during the next session of the People’s Majlis. He also addressed public concerns over judicial independence, stating that neither he nor President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has interfered in judicial matters.