Ministers' team to partake in Oceans Day 'Mas Race'

Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources on Saturday, said that a large minsterial team is set to partake in the fishing race scheduled to commemorate the World Oceans Day in June this year.

At the press conference held by the ministry to provide details of the planned activities on World Oceans Day, the State Minister of Fisheries Mohamed Muththalib said the government intends for vibrant and inclusive celebrations on this year's Oceans Day.

The State Minister said that activities have been planned specifically in Greater Male' area, with various other activities targeting multiple demographics planned nationwide.

Although the World Oceans Day is marked officially on June 08th every year, the ministry said celebratory activities will begin effective Saturday.

The first out of a series of activities planned to commemorate Oceans Day, is a nationwide art competition for kids aged seven to 13 years - which has commenced on Saturday and will last until upcoming Wednesday. Submissions can be made either via online or physically.

An essay writing competition is also scheduled, specifically for kids between 13 and 19 years. Submissions can be made either via email or physically.

An 'Oceans Literary Quiz' is planned which will run from next Wednesday to Friday.

An series of information sessions have been planned to raise awareness among students about the oceans amid the celebratory activities, after which the students will be made to sign a pledge advocating for ocean preservation and efforts against pollution.

The biggest celebratory event, a fishing race, is scheduled for next Friday - taking place in Male' area. The event will be inaugurated near Hulhumale' Ferry Terminal, with 25 teams already signed on to take part in the competition.

Concurrent to the fishing race, a harbor clean-up event will be held on next Friday targeting Male' area habors and piers. The event will be held with under the collaborative efforts of Male' City Council, MTCC, HDC and other government bodies.

Muththalib added that several other activities have been planned across the country to commemorate this year's Oceans Day.