Commission asks Youth Ministry to halt funds for one media outlet while payments proceed for 39 others

The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission (MMBC) has announced that 39 media outlets will receive financial assistance from the state budget.

A total of 41 media outlets applied for funding and completed the required procedures, the commission said. However, MMBC noted in a statement on Monday that two of the eligible outlets were operated by the same company, prompting a review.

The commission said it has clarified the issue and informed the media involved. The Youth Ministry has been asked not to release funds to the affected outlets until the matter is resolved.

The remaining 39 media outlets will proceed with disbursement through the Youth Ministry and the Finance Ministry, according to MMBC.

The commission added that it is working to ensure that media outlets applying for assistance can view updates and changes through the designated app.

The allocation of state‑budget funding to private media outlets has recently drawn criticism on social media, particularly from some opposition‑aligned politicians. Many have expressed dissatisfaction over media funding at a time when the country is facing issues such as medicine shortages and delays in student allowances.