Government allocates MVR 27.2 million to 40 private media outlets

The state has allocated MVR 27.2 million to 40 private media outlets, the Youth Ministry said on Wednesday.

A total of 41 outlets applied for financial assistance. According to the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission (MMBC), all applicants completed the required procedures. However, one outlet was later removed from the list after it was found that two proposals had been submitted by the same company, leaving 40 eligible outlets.

The Youth Ministry said MVR 27.29 million has already been deposited through the Finance Ministry. The ministry stated that the funding aims to empower private media and support responsible journalism.

The state had initially announced MVR 28 million for 18 media outlets in the October 29 budget. That list drew criticism, with concerns that it was compiled hastily and without assessing newsroom size, staffing, or output. Some also questioned why very small outlets were included.

Following the backlash, responsibility for administering the funding was transferred to the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission.

The allocation is part of a campaign pledge by President Mohamed Muizzu.

In recent days, several opposition‑aligned politicians have criticised the decision on social media, arguing that state‑funded assistance to private media is inappropriate under current financial constraints. Many citizens have also expressed frustration, pointing to medicine shortages and delays in student allowances while media funding continues from the state budget.