More than USD 800,000 raised through the “Maldivians with Ceylon” telethon has been officially handed over to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for onward delivery to the Government of Sri Lanka.

The nationwide fundraising effort launched by Public Service Media (PSM) in partnership with 37 local media outlets was organised to support Sri Lanka’s recovery from the devastation caused by the recent storm.

The initiative collected MVR 11,553,291.10, USD 51,088.31, and EUR 20 during the telethon, which ran from 9:00 a.m. on Sunday until 3:00 p.m. yesterday.

At a handover ceremony, PSM Deputy Managing Director Abdulla Yameen presented the total proceeds to Foreign Minister Dr Abdulla Khaleel, who accepted the funds on behalf of the government.

The contribution will be transferred as a gift from the people of the Maldives to the Government of Sri Lanka through the Foreign Ministry.

According to the Steering Committee, the telethon drew widespread participation from the public, government institutions, private companies, clubs, associations, offices, and numerous media organisations.

Donation boxes were placed across Malé during the campaign, while bank transfer options were made available to ensure convenient access for contributors.

The initiative was conducted with the support of Crowe Maldives, an independent audit firm, to ensure transparency.

The Maldives Police Service made the largest single contribution, donating MVR 2.4 million, while other major donors including the International Aid Campaign also extended significant financial support.