Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam announced on Tuesday that the government is planning to establish a specialized 'Cat Island' for cat rehabilitation.

During a press conference at the President’s Office, Shiyam mentioned that building such an island would involve considerable costs, leading the government to look for interested parties to carry out the project. He disclosed that multiple parties, including a global organization, have shown interest and provided proposals.

The Minister stated that the proposals submitted are now being assessed.

"A global organization has presented a plan." The Minister remarked, “We anticipate this project will evolve into a highly successful endeavor that shares uplifting news with the pet community.”

Shiyam reiterated that creating an island with modern amenities in a nation like the Maldives would draw significant attention from the global community.

Recognizing the considerable public worry regarding the increasing stray cat population in the Greater Malé Area, the Minister noted that initiatives to enhance the “Olhuhiyaa” pet shelter in Hulhumalé Phase 2 are advancing quickly.

Currently housing 280 cats, Shiyam stated that the upcoming expansion would raise its capacity to nearly 500 cats.

The "Olhuhiyaa" center, created to tackle the stray cat problem in the capital area, was opened by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on November 2, 2024.

The center has a quarantine section, medical clinic, lab, veterinary pharmacy, and specific living areas for the cats.