Govt. requests closure of non-essential businesses

The government of Maldives has requested the closure of businesses that could do so as a precautionary measure against the spread of the Covid-19 virus.

The call comes after the cabinet had decided to close government offices for a week yesterday. In a news conference held last night, spokesperson Mabrook Azeez stated that the government wanted to stop the spread of the disease and to implement social distancing. He called on the citizens to follow the steps of the government in the efforts.

He added that the capital city would not be brought to a halt over the measures and basic necessities such as electricity, internet and water would still be available without any difficulties. He said that despite calls to implement a full lockdown on the country, the government did not believe the situation warranted such a measure yet.

The Maldivian government also issued a temporary tourist ban on guesthouses and city hotels across the country yesterday.