Minister of Climate Change, Environment and Energy Thoriq Ibrahim has commended the Maldives’ national radio station, Dhivehi Raajjeyge Adu, for its long-standing commitment to providing timely weather information to the public. The Minister made these remarks while speaking on a special programme aired on the occasion of the station’s 62nd Anniversary.
Speaking on the programme, Minister Thoriq said Dhivehi Raajjeyge Adu and the Ministry have a long-standing relationship. He said that even before he was appointed to the Cabinet, he had always been aware of the collaborative work between Dhivehi Raajjeyge Adu and the Maldives Meteorological Service to bring the latest weather information to the public.
“I have distant memories of the weather forecast aired after the news. The information provided in the forecast, brought in collaboration with the MET Office under the Ministry, is important information for planning the day ahead. Fishermen and travelers and others pay a lot of attention to the weather,” the Minister said.
The Climate Change, Environment and Energy Minister also noted the crucial role played by Dhivehi Raajjeyge Adu in raising awareness on the country’s fragile environment and the threats to it. He noted that the radio plays an important tole on educating the public on the effects of removing sand, gravel and rocks from the beaches, as well as the vulnerability of the surrounding environment and garbage issues.
The Minister said extra effort should be made collectively by all to address the garbage issue facing the Maldives. He called on the citizens to acknowledge their role in tackling the Maldives’ garbage problem.
Recounting nostalgic memories of Dhivehi Raajjeyge Adu, the Minister recalled the request programmes aired by the radio, and fond memories of waiting in anticipation for the children’s programme, Eba Ulhey Eba Ulhey and the Ramadan-special Roadha Kurukurun programme during his childhood.
The national radio service was launched on 29 December and has now been in operation for 62 years. The radio service has played an essential role in educating and entertaining the people. The anniversary celebrations feature special coverage with participation from government officials and former employees.