The Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare has confirmed that two parties have applied to operate the Olhu Hiya animal shelter in Hulhumalé, following a public call for proposals.

The ministry opened the bid process on May 22, inviting interested parties to manage the facility for a one-year term. Applications closed on June 12, with only two submissions received before the deadline. The ministry has since begun evaluating the proposals. 

While the ministry also announced plans to hire staff for the shelter, it noted that the immediate priority is to appoint a suitable operator.

Constructed on a 5,000-square-foot plot, the Olhu Hiya shelter was officially inaugurated on 2 November 2024. Initially managed by the Malé City Council, the facility was transferred to the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare in February 2025, following a Cabinet decision.

Since taking over operations, the ministry has facilitated the relocation of animals to the shelter and has overseen day-to-day management in the interim.