Maldives appoints first female diplomat

MALE, Oct 29 (HNS) – Former Women's Affairs Minister Rashida Yousuf on Monday became Maldives' first female diplomat with her appointment as Maldives' High Commissioner to Sri Lanka. President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom gave Rashida her letter of appointment at a ceremony held at the President's Office. At the ceremony, Gayoom spoke to Rashida about her responsibilities as Maldives' ambassador to Sri Lanka, noting that Maldives enjoyed "very close and warm ties of friendship" with Sri Lanka. He said that he desired to further consolidate and strengthen those ties in the times to come. Rashida was appointed as Maldives' first high-ranking female diplomat at ministerial rank.

US Assistant Secretary of State for South Asia thanks President Gayoom

MALE, April 11 (HNS) – United States Assistant Secretary of State for South Asia Christina Rocca has thanked President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom for the warm welcome and hospitality accorded to her during her visit to Maldives in March.In a message to the President, Rocca expressed her immense appreciation and thanks on meeting the President during her visit to Maldives last month. Rocca congratulated Gayoom on the developmental success which had been achieved by Maldives and wished good fortune to the President in his endeavour to bring greater prosperity to Maldives' people.

Couple severely burnt as gas leak catches fire from cooker

MALE, Dec 9 (HNS) – A couple was severely burnt Sunday morning when a gas leak from a cooker caught fire. Mohamed Moosa and his wife Faiza Ali have been admitted to Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) following the accident and doctors described their condition as serious. "Both are in serious condition," said Mohamed Ismail Fulhu, the director of administration at IGMH. A witness from H. Baadhal where the couple was living on rent told Haveeru that it was supposed that the gas cooker was not properly turned off the night before and therefore caught fire when Faiza turned it on the next morning. Her husband Mohamed was nearby brushing teeth, said the witness who asked not to be named. The room in which the couple were living did not receive much damage from the fire.

Picnickers cautioned of gypsy moths in Kuda Bandos

MALE, July 9 (HNS) -- Kuda Bandos cautioned picnickers to beware of the vast number of gypsy moths now invading the nearby island. The Senior Administrator of Human Resources Department of Bandos Island Resort, Ismail Faseeh, said insecticides are being used to wipe out the insects. Hence, Bandos resort, which runs Kuda Bandos picnic island, urged picnickers to be careful about these insects which have spread all over the island. In spite of the vast number of gypsy moths in the island, picnickers are still visiting Kuda Bandos in large numbers. "Two weeks have passed. There has been no decrease in the number of picnickers visiting the island. We are working hard to eradicate these insects," Faseeh told Haveeru.

Island Aviation working on introduction of holiday package for Maldivians

Male, September 23 (HNS) – Island Aviation Services Pvt. Ltd., said on Sunday that it is trying to introduce holiday packages for Maldivians. The company's Manager, Reservation and Marketing, Inthikab Ahmed said that it is seeking parties, which will collaborate with the airline to introduce the packages. He said that Island Aviation is negotiating with Passenger Sales Agents and other parties. Ahmed said that it is trying to introduce holiday packages for Maldivians to enable Maldivians to spend their holidays in Maldives at a lower cost that going abroad for holidays. He said that the package would include features such as tours of historic places in Maldives.

Ocean Air starts sale of tickets to Gan

MALE, Feb 10 (HNS) – Ocean Air has started selling tickets to Addu Atoll Gan sector for upcoming Eid holidays although it has not officially confirmed a date yet for resuming its flights. An official said that inspections on a plane it recently acquired are near to completion and therefore the company expected to shortly get the official go-ahead for resuming its flights. "That's why we began to sell tickets. We are planning to arrange two flights per day during the Eid holidays," the official told Haveeru. Ocean Air has brought a 36-passenger plane to operate to all domestic destinations. The private airline temporarily halted its operations in November 2001 after getting a replacement plane. The break in its operations occurred due to ongoing inspections of the airline's new plane.

Yellowfin tuna export generates Rf4.4 million royalty during January-July 2002 period

MALE, Sept 2 (HNS) - Yellowfin tuna export generated Rf4.4 million in royalties during the first seven months of this year, the Trade Ministry revealed. This is a Rf700,000 increase in royalty over the year-ago period, Director Trade Licensing Usman Shakir said. "Income from royalties is increasing because there is an increase in exports. Yellowfin tuna exports exceeded this year over the year-ago period," Usman told Haveeru. Maldives' yellowfin tuna exports during the January-July 2002 period amount to 348 tones.Last year, 311 tones of yellowfin tuna were exported in the first seven months, which resulted in royalties of Rf3.6 million to the government. Yellowfin tuna is one of the items exported by Maldives whose main source of income comes from tourism and fisheries.

Us and them: accepting people with special needs

SELF-HELP by Fathmath Ibrahim (Iko*) Who is "us" and who is "them"? For the last decades, most societies have been learning how to reintegrate those who for many years were cast as outsiders and were excluded from our communities: the mentally ill and the physically challenged. Thirty years ago, my aunt was banished to a remote island because she was not considered 'normal'. Today she has been diagnosed as autistic! We live in a society which still has problems integrating people with disabilities. It still has a problem accepting; it still looks at handicapped people as if they are bad and unwanted. Resources are more plentiful but still scarce, schools are more accommodating but not as available as they are to the disabled child's typically functioning peers. Caregivers are dedicated where available, yet the low paying wages in the field of social work provide little motivation factor to fill the number of positions required. Take for example, the little things we take for granted such as walkways and doors. For the physically challenged, there are pitifully few ramps or safe pavements! With the recent explosion of autism, ADHD, Tourettes, and other neurological disorders, the need for specialized care must respond to the demand of both children and parents who act as their primary caregivers. The society must understand these are not simply "difficult" or "mentally handicapped" children, but children in need of specialized care with an entirely different makeup than their typically functioning classmates. Every child should have access to such care, regardless of their geographic location, or economic position. Research shows that the first five years of a child's life are absolutely critical for proper development, and even more so in the case of the neurologically disordered. Without serious intervention, these children will not have the opportunity to live useful, productive lives. Instead they will end up in institutions and locked away in homes for the rest of their lives. Being mentally challenged does not mean they are stupid or crazy. Nowadays, people use words like "retarded" to mean that something is dumb. This is not how it should be used. Being mentally challenged just means you have a different way of learning. Disabled people are very aware of what goes on around them. They know when others stare at them, and it makes them uncomfortable, like it would make you uncomfortable if you were stared at. They know when they are pitied, and that hurts, because no one wants pity just because they are different. However, they also know when others accept them for who they are and take the time to be their friend, and that gives them a wonderful feeling. Special needs people did not chose their situation in society and they cannot do anything to change it. In many ways, they are just like everyone else. They too, long to be loved and accepted, and they just want to have some friends. They are humans just like us, and they need to be included in our worlds and in our lives. They too, have something to add to society. And they too, have a purpose for life. We just need to give them a chance. For if we seek difference in others, it is really us who are the real retarded! [*Iko is a psychologist working with the Narcotics Control Board (NCB). If you have any questions or concerns about drug abuse and related social or interpersonal issues, please email her at: fi4@waikato.ac.nz]

Rekindle your romance -- even after marriage

SELF-HELP by Fathmath Ibrahim (Iko*) A friend once asked me 'why is it that after marriage a man stops being romantic?" In reality, the man is rarely the sole reason for the loss of romance in a marriage. There seems to be a tendency for both partners to "relax" in a relationship after the paperwork is signed. For Him: Most men think that because they are "turned on" by the more physical aspects, women are too. Unlike men, women are more lured by the emotional traits such as a caring attitude and open communication. Most women seem to respond romantically to "effort". She will melt in your arms if you were thoughtful enough to bring some flowers or a little gift or simply after you had "spent some time" giving her your attention. For Her: However, it is not just the man who messes up the romance in a marriage. Before marriage, ladies tend to spend more time and effort looking good for their men, but soon after the honeymoon it becomes secondary. We give excuses like; kids, jobs, parents and lack of privacy. But remember that most men respond favorably to simple physical things like the way a woman looks, smells, moves and sounds. So it pays to take that extra time to pamper yourself, and flaunt what you've got. Even after years of marriage, it is important to have quality time only for the two of you. Here are some ways for you to rekindle your romance and keep the fire burning: * Start by just holding hands. Hold hands every time you are together. All of us need more touching, and holding hands is a wonderful way to show our partner we love them. * Write love notes to one another, even if it's just the words "I love you." Leave them where your partner will find them during the day. * Compliment your partner often. Tell them all the things you love and appreciate about them. Write a note stating three ways the world is a better place because he/she is in it. * Pamper your partner with a hand, foot, back, or neck massage. Share a romantic meal. Prepare it together. Put candles on the table. Dress up as though on a date. Play your favorite music. Unplug the phone and enjoy each other. (Leave kids with a relative for the night) * Do a "random act of kindness" for your partner. Surprise them with something that they'll never expect but will greatly appreciate. It can be extra special if it is something that you did while you were dating (for e.g. snorkeling, night out in a resort/island, a romantic walk along the beach) * Exchange lists with each other of at least four things that you respect and admire about your partner. Write a paragraph recalling the events, things you noticed and the way you felt when the two of you first met. * Take at least 15 minutes a day for 'growth time' for you to share your dreams for the future and really listen to each other. Laugh, love, learn and grow together. * Spend a whole day together, just the two of you. Play and have fun. Go for a walk and talk. Do what you both enjoy. If you have children, make arrangements with family or friends to watch them. * Remember that intimacy may mean different things to men and women. My favorite book, John Gray's Mars and Venus in the Bedroom will help explain the differences in men and women. Read it out loud to each other. Respectfully talk about what makes each of you feel close to the other. Remember, feeling safe and unconditionally accepted lead both men and women to feeling loved and special. * Helping each other out as much as you can, can also be extremely romantic. Help her to do the dishes, at the same time steal a few kisses to let her know how much she is appreciated. If he is working late give him a call and let him know someone special is waiting at home for him. * Start dating again. Set aside a regular night for couple time. It's okay to meet friends, but save at least the first hour or so for just the two of you. Do everything you can to bring new surprises into your relationship, whether that means sexy ling

Teachers shape generations of the future: President

MALE, Dec 6 (HNS) - President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has said that teachers shape the generations of the future. He said this while addressing a function held at Dharubaaruge Wednesday to mark the Silver Jubilee of Teacher Education in the Maldives and to award the certificates and prizes to this year's graduates of the Faculty of Education. The President stressed the importance of the safeguarding of the future of the country in having teaching responsibilities carried out by patriotic teachers who had a sound knowledge of the Maldives, a heightened awareness of local traditions and customs, a developed sense of national identity, and commitment and loyalty to nation. He said that teachers were asked to care for an important and precious trust of the people as teachers played the most important role in developing the young minds of children and in the building of their character. President Gayoom reiterated that the teaching profession was providing services to the community in a vital field to the nation, and said that the government deeply appreciated the services of those who were active in the education sector of the country, both in the past and at the present. He said that teachers should recognize the significance of the demanding responsibilities of their profession and should consider it their duty to develop a future generation that would be equal to the national tasks ahead of the country. The President said that the country needed its children to grow into productive and constructive adults who were strong in faith, patriotic, and committed to serving the nation. He said that the responsibility for building such a fine generation devolved upon the teaching profession. Pointing out that teachers had a useful opportunity to influence and shape for the better, the thinking, the behaviour, and the personality development of children, the President said that if teachers were able to make good and positive use of that opportunity, the future of the nation would be in the hands of generations that were loyal to the nation and firm in their faith. President Gayoom characterized teaching as an exalted national service and said that the attraction of good quality students into the teaching profession constituted an important foundation-stone in building a good future for the nation. He noted that prior to 1999 teacher education in Maldives was conducted by the Ministry of Education and paid tribute to the remarkable effort the Ministry had put into teacher education. In this regard, the President expressed his appreciation to former Ministers of Education Abdul Sattar Moosa Didi, Dr. Mohamed Zahir Hussain, and Abdulla Hameed, as well as to the incumbent, Dr. Mohamed Latheef for their service. The President also thanked all agencies, administrators and teachers who had at various times served in teacher training since the beginning of teacher education in Maldives in 1977. In addition, the President thanked Mausooma Jaleel, Dean of the Faculty of Education for her dedicated service and noted that she was the only individual who had served in teacher training in the Maldives from the start. The President thanked Nadhira Ismail, observing that she had served in a very senior capacity and for a long time in teacher training, and also Ahmed Ali Manik, Vice-Rector of the Maldives College of Higher Education, for his long-standing service in teacher education. The President also paid tribute to the late Nazeera Ahmed who had served as Teacher Educator and Coordinator at the Teacher Education Centre, a forerunner to the Faculty of Education. During the function, President Gayoom was presented with the special book, "Rihi Foiy", or Silver Journal, commemorating the 25th anniversary of teacher education in the Maldives. The Dean of the Faculty of Education Mausooma Jaleel presented the book to the President. At the function, the President presented certificates and prizes to the 15 graduates of the fourth Na

OIC rejects war against Iraq but remain divided on US bases

DOHA, Mar 5 (AFP) - Islamic nations Wednesday joined a burgeoning international movement opposed to a US-led assault on Iraq at the close of a summit here that also exposed sharp differences among Muslim countries on how closely they should cooperate with Washington's war plans. The 57-member Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC) pointedly rejected a US scheme to oust Iraqi President Saddam Hussein and reshape the Middle East and said the ominous US-Iraq standoff should be resolved within the United Nations. But the one-day emergency gathering, which drew but a handful of presidents and prime ministers, highlighted lingering tensions within the Arab world and saw an acrimonious, public spat between delegates from Iraq and Kuwait. The summit had been called to forge a unified Islamic position, following similar moves by the Arab League and the Non-Aligned Movement, in the face of US and British threats to attack and occupy Iraq to rid it of its alleged weapons of mass destruction. "I cannot say it was successful in all measures," Qatari Foreign Minister Sheikh Hamad bin Jassem bin Jabr al-Thani, whose country holds the rotating OIC presidency, said following the six-hour session at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel. "But I can say there was good progress. There is a consensus and that's very important for the Islamic world." He said a controversial proposal by the United Arab Emirates at last weekend's Arab summit, calling for Saddam to step down and go into exile, was not discussed here and would be studied further within the Arab League. Baghdad has angrily rejected the proposal, which also envisages establishing a transitional Arab-UN administration in Iraq. However, Iraqi and UAE delegates held a brief meeting on the sidelines of the summit, which one Emirati source said took place "in the framework of the UAE ideas." In addition to voicing "total rejection of any strike on Iraq and any threat to the security of any Islamic state," Islamic leaders urged Muslim countries to "refrain from taking part in any military action targeting the security and territorial integrity of Iraq or any Muslim nation." Diplomatic sources said the summit discarded language in an earlier draft statement that appealed to Islamic countries to refuse to grant any military facilities to the United States that could be used to invade Iraq. The final declaration instead came out against active participation in a war on Iraq as several Gulf members of the OIC -- Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Qatar -- have granted the United States such facilities on their territories. "There are US bases in all Gulf (Arab) countries," said Qatar's foreign minister, whose country is expected to serve as a command center in any war. Referring to US threats to topple Saddam and re-orient the Middle East politically, the OIC said it opposed "any attempts to impose change in the region and interfere in its internal affairs." The summit also welcomed Baghdad's cooperation with UN arms inspectors and backed calls for them to be allowed to continue their work and for diplomatic efforts to be given a chance to resolve the US-Iraq conflict. The Iraq crisis "should be resolved by peaceful means within the context of the United Nations," the statement said. The summit got off to an unruly start after a Kuwaiti delegate interrupted a senior Iraqi official, revealing the depth of hostility left over from Iraq's 1990 seizure of Kuwait. The intervention of Kuwait's junior foreign minister, Sheikh Mohammad Sabah al-Sabah, outraged Iraqi second-in-command Ezzat Ibrahim, who was in the process of accusing Kuwaiti leaders of "plotting with Zionism against Iraq." "You are small, a valet and a monkey," Ibrahim charged. "Shut up," Sheikh Mohammad lashed back, prompting an appeal for calm and decorum from the emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani. Ibrahim struck a defiant tone at the summit, vowing that Iraq would teach invading US forces "an u

More than 350 parties apply for flea market stalls

MALE, June 28 (HNS) -- More than 350 parties have applied for stalls from the annual flea market organized by Maldives National Chamber of Commerce and Industry. However, there are still 50 more slots available even though participation deadline passed on Wednesday, an official from MNCCI told Haveeru on Thursday. "We still plan to give stalls until all the 400 stalls are occupied," he said. But this means that parties which apply for stalls after the deadline can now do so with a Rf300 fine. Last year, the flea market, termed "Night Market", was expected to have generated about Rf29 million in sales. This year's flea market will be held from July 27 to August 5 on Boduthakurufaanu Magu on Male's southern coast.

The tortoise and the 47 birds: Maldives protects endangered species

MALE, May 25 (HNS) -- Maldives has declared 47 birds -- and the tortoise -- as endangered and declared them protected species. The endangered species, declared protected from last Thursday, include two species of birds that are generally found in Maldives, according to Environmental Research Center's Director Dr. Mohamed Ali. The tortoise was declared protected because their numbers were rapidly dwindling. "Earlier, we found tortoises from some seven islands. Now we find them only in three islands," he told Haveeru. The three islands are Kaashidhoo in Male atoll, Mulee in Meemu atoll and Nellaidhoo in Haa Dhaalu atoll. Under the new regulations, it is a crime to keep these species as pets, disturb their nests or destroy their habitats. The government had earlier protected some 23 species of birds and declared 25 marine areas as protected sanctuaries. Three whole islands have been declared protected due to the need to protect their ecology.

Maldives among poorest in water resources: UN

MALE, March 5 (HNS) – Though the Maldives archipelago covers 90,000 square kilometers of ocean, the island state is among the poorest in fresh water resources according to a United Nations report released Wednesday. Some of the wealthiest states on the globe are among the very poorest when it comes to water resources, according to figures released by the UN's World Water Development Report. Among 180 states and entities, the slots in the top 10 for water availability go to sparsely-populated northern countries or tropical countries that are economically poor. The bottom 10 is dominated by Singapore and the oil-rich but arid states of the Gulf. Here are the two extremes: Ranking, Country or territory, Renewable water resources (cubic metres per head per year) 1. Greenland 10,767,857 2. Alaska (USA) 1,563,168 3. French Guiana 812,121 4. Iceland 609,319 5. Guyana 316,689 6. Suriname 292,566 7. Dem. Repub. of Congo (DRC) 275,679 8. Papua New Guinea 166,563 9. Gabon 133,333 10. Solomon Islands 100,000 (...) 171. Singapore 149 172. Malta 129 173. Saudi Arabia 118 174. Libya 113 175. Maldives 103 176. Qatar 94 177. Bahamas 66 178. UAE 58 179. Gaza Strip 52 180. Kuwait 10

Justice Ministry seeks ways to speed up corporate cases

MALE, July 23 (HNS) - Justice Ministry has adopted certain procedures to speed up corporate cases. Four magistrates have now been specially assigned to the task of looking into cases concerning corporate and financial affairs, Justice Minister Ahmed Zahir told Haveeru in an exclusive interview. A considerable number of cases concerning resort ownership and such are being filed at the civil court. "We are giving special attention to corporate cases. We are trying to speed up and decide lengthy pending cases before the end of the year," Zahir said. The minister said that he is personally looking into how such cases are proceeding.

Addu fishing boats set sail for Huvadhu atoll

FEYDHOO ISLAND, Addu Atoll, June 21 (HNS) -- Poor fish catch has forced Addu atoll's fishermen to move to Huvadhu atoll where fishing is reported to be good. Five of the six fishing boats of Maradhoo island are in Huvadhu atoll and dhonis from other islands have gone to Huvadhu atoll. "Both bait and tuna fisheries have gone down. That's why many fishing dhonis have gone to Huvadhu," said a Maradhoo fisherman. A fishing boat owner from Maradhoo said he has to send his boat to Huvadhu, as he had to pay back the loan which was used for financing the vessel. There are two MIFCO vessels in Addu atoll to buy fish from the fishermen.

Gayoom sends sympathy to Algerian President

MALE, May 24 (HNS) -- President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has sent a message of sympathy to the President of Algeria Abdelaziz Bouteflika following the powerful earthquake that hit northern Algeria, causing the death of hundreds of people and injury to many more. Gayoom conveyed heartfelt sympathy of the government and people of Maldives and that of his own to the President, government and people of Algeria, and in particular, to those who were directly affected by the tragedy. The President also conveyed sincere condolences to the members of the bereaved families.

Maldives participates German tourism fair

MALE, Feb 3 (HNS) – Maldives participated a tourism fair held in Dusseldorf, Germany, Maldives Tourism Promotion Board (MTPB) said. MTPB described the participation a success and said that the Maldives' stall at the fair was very popular. The fair was participated by many countries known for their lucrative diving industry. A German magazine voted Maldives' resort island Kandooma as the most popular diving destination. The resort's diving base was awarded the best diving base.

Research on second phase of regional development program to be completed in November

MALE, July 10 (HNS) -- The Ministry of Atolls Administration said that the study on the second phase of the regional development project will be completed in November. The Ministry said a team from the Asian Development Bank has visited Maldives and processed information from some islands for the project that is targeted for the 13 islands -- which were not included in the first phase of the regional development project. The regional development project that has been formulated under the "effaskurun policy" (which involves shifting people from disadvantaged islands to more opportune islands), the team has visited Fonadhoo and Gan island of Laamu atoll. The team will also visit Naifaru island of Lhaviyani atoll. In addition to visiting these islands, the research team had visited Kulhudhuffushi island of Haa Dhaalu atoll to observer the work of phase one of the regional development project. When the work of the first phase of the project is completed this year, development resources will be established in these islands.

Maldives seeks joint tourism bid with Sri Lanka

COLOMBO, May 9 (AFP) - Maldives is seeking joint tourism promotion with Sri Lanka as part of efforts to boost their bilateral trade and economic cooperation, President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom said here yesterday. The two countries have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to establish a task force to study areas of cooperation in tourism, a key source of foreign exchange for both South Asian nations. "A highlight of my visit is the MOU on tourism," Gayoom said at the end of his four-day official visit during which he held talks with President Chandrika Kumaratunga and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. Sri Lanka is a key transit point for tourists travelling onto the neighbouring Maldives, which is known for its white sandy beaches, crystal clear lagoons and an abundance of tropical fish surrounding its coral-protected tiny islets. Fighting between government forces and Tamil Tiger rebels in the past three decades hurt tourism in Sri Lanka but a ceasefire since February last year has seen a rise in the number of foreign visitors. Any improvement in tourism in Sri Lanka is seen as having a knock on effect for the Maldives with many high-spenders combining both destinations in one holiday package.

Bush “grateful” for Maldives support against terrorism

MALE, Sept 14 (HNS) – United States President George W. Bush has said that he is "grateful" for Maldives support against terrorism. "The American people are profoundly grateful to you and the people of Maldives for your important contributions to the campaign to free the world of terrorism," Bush said in a message to President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, in response to Gayoom's message of support on the occasion of the remembrance of the victims of the Sept 11 attacks on the US. "The US was directly attacked last Sept 11, but terrorism threatens the people of Maldives as well as Americans. We are particularly grateful for your contribution to peace, freedom and prosperity. With perseverance and courage, we can reach these shared goals together," Bush said. "Our two nations have strong bonds of friendship that have grown stronger over many years," he added.

Create more jobs for people living in the atolls: Atoll Chiefs

MALE, June 9 (HNS) -- Industrial works need to be expanded in the atolls to provide more employment opportunities, according to Atoll Chiefs. Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll Chief Ahmed Rasheed told the five-day Atoll Chiefs Consultative Meeting 7 which started in Male on Sunday that as the number of unemployed youths and adults are increasing, it was important that industries aimed at creating jobs are set up in the atolls. Laamu Atoll Chief Moosa Ali said that despite the existence of an Industrial Zone in the atoll, job opportunities are scarce as the zone has not been fully utilised. The atoll chiefs said that it was of paramount importance that given the availability of fewer jobs, that industries are developed in the islands. "The number of foreign workers employed in the resorts has to be decreased and more Maldivians have to be given jobs. It is important to find out why locals are reluctant to work at factories and also find more job-creating works," Moosa Ali said. The Atoll Chiefs Seventh Consultative Meeting, which ends on Thursday, is attended by 17 Atoll Chiefs and officials from all the atolls of Maldives.

Two-timing Kulhudhuffushi girl’s one lover injures the other

MALE, July 24 (HNS) -- A man suffered a gash on the head after he was hit in the face by a steel bar by another man on Monday evening in Haa Dhaalu atoll Kulhudhuffushi island. Both were dating a single girl, and it seemed that the victim mentioned something to the girl's dislike one evening, and that she referred this problem to her other lover who consequently went and assaulted the victim. The victim is married and has three children and the attack on him was witnessed by his wife outside their home. The man suffered a five-inch gash to the head and was treated at the Regional Hospital on Tuesday. This is the third time this year in Kulhudhuffushi when lovers' spats broke out in open assault.

In search of the “perfect” woman (or man)

By Fathmath Ibrahim (Iko*) My brother just got married to his longtime girlfriend of 12 years! This made me wonder whether that 15 years has been spent confirming his belief that she is the perfect woman for him and vice versa. Is there such a thing as the perfect woman or the perfect man? Many of us, even from childhood, have templates of how our perfect boyfriend/girlfriend or husband/wife will be like. Some say: "My ideal man will be tall, dark, movie-star type looks with rugged features and a fat bank account to boost!"; "My ideal woman will be skinny, have a nice smile, dark hair, gorgeous legs, small breasts, firm body but not muscular!" Some of us go to extreme lengths in deciding whether someone is right or wrong for us. Some of us are on a quest to find that "perfect" partner, our ultimate lover, our soul mate, our equal, who shares our every interest and belief. This is a completely unrealistic expectation. Someone with this expectation causes his or her own disappointments, and will rarely experience the satisfaction of a loving relationship. We are all individuals, with different opinions, philosophies, political beliefs, hobbies, musical tastes, and habits -- some good and some bad. These things are what make up who we are as unique individuals. In a relationship, some of the differences may actually be advantageous to building a stronger, loving relationship between you. Sometimes you balance one another, each offering different strengths. For example, if you lack patience, and your partner is the most patient human being you have ever met, your partner can help you in situations where you need to exercise more patience. Relationships are built not only from love and sexual attraction. They are also built from compatibility, which does not necessarily mean sameness. As a couple, you have to share some similar likes and dislikes, and you have to enjoy doing many things together, but you do not have to be identical twins. Each of us has to maintain our individuality. It is what attracted us to each other in the first place. Instead of seeking the "perfect" partner, you need to seek a partner who is right for you. Let go of your 'perfect partner' template and focus on what your partner has and build on that. Start to grow together as a couple to improve your weaknesses and enjoy your strengths. Sure, it can be hard with the daily hammerings on TV underlying the attractions of a long neck and voluptuous body. But what we need to realize is that hardly ever does fantasy become reality. What we seek superciliously can also be seen alternatively in a heart of gold, or an unbeatable marvelous attitude of love and care. Finding the right person for you is only the beginning of this process. Without putting in work, even the most perfectly matched couple's relationship will eventually fade. Many of us learn this the hard way, regretting that we did not work harder at our relationships while we still had the chance. Some of us go from relationship to relationship, hoping to find "the perfect one," only to find ourselves, down the road in another relationship, missing an old partner whom we now recognize, in our heart, was the right one for us. As they say, 'Perfection is in the eyes of the beholder'! Let me share an extract by James L. Collymore called the "Perfect Woman": "I began many years ago, as so many young men do, in searching for the perfect woman. I believed that if I looked long enough, and hard enough, I would find her and then I would be secure for life. Well, the years and romances came and went, and I eventually ended up settling for someone a lot less than my idea of perfection. But one day, after many years together, I lay there on our bed recovering from a slight illness. My wife was sitting on a chair next to the bed, humming softly and watching the late afternoon sun filtering through the trees. And as I looked up into my wife's now wrinkled face, but still warm and twinkling eyes

Jewel thief caught

MALE, Aug 3 (HNS) - A man who stole jewelry worth Rf50,000 and Rf38,000 in cash has been apprehended. Hussain Abdul Hakeem, 21, also took two mobile phones during the robbery he had committed on July 16, police said. He was arrested following an operation police conducted based on a report filed by the house which was burgled. Hussain was apprehended while he was in his rented room. "At the time of arrest, he was under the influence of drugs. He had on his clothes some Rf1,500," Assistant Commissioner of Police, Major Ibrahim Latheef said. Hussain had confessed to his crime during investigations, police said, adding that, however, investigations were being continued. Police has now handed over the stolen jewelry to its owners. However, they have not yet been able to find the stolen cash. Police noted the assistance of a taxi driver, whose name was not disclosed, in leading to the arrest of the thief. This is not the first time that Hussain has been taken into custody; he had been apprehended five times for robbery. He was first arrested in 1998.

Perishable waste records 50 percent decrease during Ramadan

MALE, Dec 13 (HNS) – Perishable waste recorded a 50 percent decrease during this Ramadan, the public works ministry said. In Ramadan months of earlier years, two to three lorries of food waste has to be disposed according to the waste management section of the public works ministry. The bulk of food waste include perishable items such as vegetables and fruits. "We have seen a great drop in disposal of perishable items," deputy director Mohamed Latheef said. "On some days there is no disposal at all. Even on those days when there is, there is little to dispose of." Latheef said that the reduction during this Ramadan in the import of vegetables and fruits especially watermelons may have contributed to the reduction of perishable items waste. Food items make up about 33 percent of all garbage disposed monthly from Male in months other than Ramadan. In Ramadan, food items make up about 50 percent of all garbage. As the amount of garbage disposed from Male has reduced this Ramadan, it consequently saw a drop in garbage disposed at nearby Thilafushi which is being reclaimed by dumping waste.

President sends condolences to Bangladesh, Nigeria leaders

MALE, May 6 (HNS) – President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has sent a message of condolence to the President of Bangladesh, Professor A. Q. M. Badruddoza Choudhury, following the sinking of a Bangladeshi ferry in Meghna river, which caused loss of life and left many people missing.In the message, President Gayoom said that he was deeply shocked and saddened to learn of the incident. Gayoom extended sympathy to Choudhury, the government and the people of Bangladesh on behalf of the government and the people of Maldives and on his own behalf. He also conveyed condolences to the members of the bereaved families. Gayoom sent a message of condolence to the President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, following the disastrous crash of a Nigerian airliner which caused the loss of life of many Nigerian passengers and injury to many. In the message, Gayoom said that it was with great shock and distress that he received the news of the crash. He extended sympathy to Obasanjo, the government and the people of Nigeria on behalf of the government and the people of Maldives and on his own behalf. He also conveyed condolences to the members of the bereaved families.

SAARC foreign secretaries arrive in Nepal, as India says no talks

KATHMANDU, July 9 (AFP) -- Foreign secretaries from a South Asian regional grouping began arriving here Tuesday ahead of a meeting in Nepal, as Indian officials said they would not be holding bilateral with Pakistan. The two-day meeting, which begins Wednesday will discuss the holding of the next South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) summit, which was due in January but delayed indefinitely by host Pakistan after India did not confirm its attendance. Foreign secretaries from Bangladesh, Bhutan the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka had already arrived in Kathmandu, with Indian foreign secretary Kanwal Sibal due to arrive later Tuesday, foreign ministry officials said. SAARC, founded in 1985, has few accomplishments to show for itself due to the constant feuding between India and Pakistan, which have fought three full-fledged wars. But the nuclear rivals, which are bitterly divided over Kashmir, are inching towards dialogue after a 10-month military standoff last year. The two countries are resuming a bus service and full diplomatic relations cut off after a December 2001 attack by Islamic militants on the Indian parliament. But Indian Foreign Minister Yashwant Sinha said in New Delhi on Tuesday that there would not be any bilateral meetings with Pakistan on the sidelines of the summit. "I don't think so that is part of our approach," he told reporters. Sinha said New Delhi would rather err on the side of caution and stay away from bilateral contacts with Pakistan during the secretary-level meeting in Kathmandu of SAARC. "We want to move ahead with caution through a step-by-step approach and we are moving ahead in that direction," Sinha said. An Indian foreign ministry spokesman also said no separate meeting was planned between the officials of India and Pakistan. "As far as I am aware, there are no plans for any bilateral meeting," the spokesman said. On Tuesday, a SAARC preparatory committee held a meeting ahead of Wednesday's secretary-level session, which will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Surya Bahadur Thapa. Nepalese Foreign Secretary Madhu Raman Acharya is expected to hold bilateral talks with the Indian, Pakistani and Bhutanese foreign secretaries.

100 companies abolished, 80 referred to court

MALE, May 17 (HNS) -- More than 100 companies have been abolished and 80 companies have been referred to the court, according to Trade and Industries ministry. These companies did not do any commercial activities in the past two years. The Registrar of Companies Idham Muizzu said on Thursday that before some 185 companies were abolished, a public notice was published to see if there were any issues against these companies. He said cases have been filed by the public against some companies. Muizzu said that some of the companies referred to the court have operating bank accounts, labor-related problems and some who had not paid the bills.

Maldives must not depend solely on tourism and fisheries for economic stability: report

MALE, May 17 (HNS) -- Maldives must not depend solely on tourism and fisheries for economic stability and should concentrate on development of other areas as well, according to a report. The country needs to expand service industry and export-oriented industries, said a 2001 report submitted by Maldives to a meeting of Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in Brussels. The report, which provided an outline of Maldives developmental goals, identified an 11-point recommendation plan, including the setting up of a 10-year Master Plan for industrial development, and coming up with measures to combat decline in fisheries and textile industry. Maldives has already deemed garment industry as a failed commercial experience in the country. The report also recommended the introduction of new industries, developing healthy competition among the industries and strengthening the local handicraft industry to complement the tourism industry. It also called for the creation of an environment for long-term investment in order to create investor confidence, forming a database on personnel development and training, and strengthening related laws and regulations. The report also called for the establishment of a port which can cater to the needs of vessels travelling through Maldives waters from the West to the East.

Cabinet selects winners of Public Service Award

MALE, Nov 2 (HNS) – The Cabinet on Thursday selected this year's conferees of the awards for Outstanding Service to the Public. The government has been giving these annual awards since 1979. The first such award was given on July 26 of that year during the ceremony held to mark Maldives' independence day. Nominations for the Public Service Awards are open to both public and private sectors. Nominations from the public sector are sent to the President's Office before the end of August every year. Nominations from the private sector are forwarded through the public authority concerned with the nominee's area of public service. This year's selection was finalized after discussions in the Cabinet after a ministerial committee had examined the service records of the nominees. As in previous years, the awards are to be given away at the official meeting held to mark Republic Day, which is Nov 11. However, the official ceremony this year is to be held on Nov 12. The Cabinet's session on Thursday also deliberated upon the participation of Maldives in the Convention on the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), and recommended its ratification by Maldives. Key objectives of MIGA include the promotion of foreign direct investment to alleviate poverty and improve living standards in developing countries. Furthermore, at the Cabinet session, President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom briefed the Cabinet on his recent visit to Egypt to attend the opening of the new Alexandria Library.

ADB raises share of project funding in developing nations

MANILA, Feb 4 (AFP) - The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is to substantially increase its share of funding for projects in developing member countries to help them tide over fiscal and other financial constraints, officials said. The Manila-based bank's funding share has been between 40 and 80 percent of the cost of projects since 1998. Effective January 1, 2003, ADB's minimum share would rise to 65 percent but the ceiling would remain largely unchanged, Ann Quon, the bank's director of external relations, told AFP Thursday. "The bottomline is that ADB is now able to provide a larger proportion of project cost financing than done previously," she said. Although the change applies only to new project loans, it will be a welcome relief to nearly 33 countries banking on the ADB for funding of projects ranging from micro-finance banking to sewage systems. Compared with other multilateral financial institutions, such as the World Bank and the Japan Bank for International Cooperation, the ADB gives the smallest funding share for projects. "The new ruling will now narrow the difference between ADB and the other multilateral financial institutions in terms of percentage of project share funding," Quon said. In devising the change, the ADB also considered the tighter fiscal situation in the region and the "lingering" effects of the Asian financial crisis in 1997/8 and the subsequent Russian financial crisis, she added. Last year, ADB lent a total of 5.7 billion dollars by taking stakes in 76 projects, mostly in Asia, including in Afghanistan where it resumed operations for the first time in 23 years. ADB's loan value is expected to increase substantially in 2003 with its higher share in project funding. The ADB's project cost-sharing limits are based largely on a country's per capita gross national product (GNP) and external debt repayment capacity, officials said. Under the new criteria, Quon said, ADB would shoulder 65 percent of project costs -- from 40 percent previously -- in the Philippines, Fiji, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. In China, India, Indonesia and Papua New Guinea, ADB's stake in projects would increase from 60 percent to 70 percent. The bank's funding limit would be raised to 75 percent from 70 percent in Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Marshall islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Tonga and Vietnam. ADB would however maintain its 80 percent funding limit in Afghanistan, Bhutan, Cambodia, Kiribati, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tajikistan and Vanuatu. The bank's largest borrowers last year were India at about 1.2 bilion dollars, Pakistan at 1.1 billion dollars, China at 900 million dollars and Indonesia at 800 million dollars. The ADB has 61 member economies as its shareholders, of which Japan and the United States are the largest. Thomas Crouch, ADB's Philippine country director, said the bank's new ruling on project cost-sharing limits was in line with its emphasis on social development. In the Philippines, for example, projects might not necessarily generate income but contributed to poverty eradication -- the bank's key goal, he told AFP. Crouch said the ADB was considering financing several projects in the agriculture, social and finance sectors in the Philippines this year, including in the troubled and poverty-stricken southern Mindanao area. "The projects we are hoping for in the Philippines include a non-bank financial governance programme, like involving bond trading and micro-finance, as well as in education and water resources," he said. Last year, the bank allocated 40 million dollars in project loans in the Philippines and supported reforms in the country's key power sector through a partial credit guarantee for a 500-million-dollar bond issue.

Dhiraagu signs Rf56 million mobile expansion project

MALE, Mar 15 (HNS) – Maldives telecoms company Dhiraagu signed a Rf56 million contract on Thursday with Alcatel to expand mobile phone service in Maldives. The contract is part of a Rf110 million package Dhiraagu is investing this year to expand mobile services, the company said in a press release. Under this contract, mobile phone coverage will be expanded to 16 new islands in seven atolls, extending mobile coverage from the current 54 percent to 73 percent of Maldives population by the end of the year. The contract also includes enhancements to the mobile exchange and base stations to further improve the quality of service offered to customers, and to meet the forecast demand during the year, Dhiraagu said. "Our policy is to invest strategically to extend and enhance (mobile) coverage across the country while at the same time providing our customers with a high quality, reliable and affordable service," Dhiraagu CEO Ismail Waheed was quoted as saying. "This project alone will provide the benefit of mobile coverage to an additional 19 percent of the population, thereby increasing coverage to nearly three quarters of the population." Dhiraagu said that "more details", including the identity of the islands to be covered this year and the expected service available dates, "will be communicated to customers over the coming weeks." Dhiraagu, the sole telecommunications company in Maldives, is a joint venture company between the Maldives government and Britain's Cable and Wireless PLC. ($=12.85)

President Gayoom appointed Vice President of heads of state and government meeting at the World Summit on Sustainable Development

MALE, Sept 3 (HNS) – President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has been appointed Vice President of the heads of state and government meeting at the World Summit on Sustainable Development which started Monday. President Gayoom, First Lady Nasreena Ibrahim, Maldives Environment Minister Ismail Shafeeu and other delegates attended the opening ceremony of the Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. Upon their arrival at the Summit venue -- Sandton Convention Center in Johannesburg -- the President and the First Lady were welcomed by United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan, his wife Nane Annan and South African President Thabo Mbeki and First Lady Zanele Mbeki. President Gayoom is to address the Summit Tuesday afternoon.

Maldives enjoys 756 years of independence since conversion to Islam

FEATURE by Mohamed Shathir, Haveeru's historical correspondent MALE, July 27 (HNS) - Few countries have enjoyed a prolonged period of independence in their history, Maldives proudly among them. Even before the country's conversion to Islam in June 1153 AD, historical records show that the tiny island nation had remained an independent and sovereign state. Scholars say that a sense of nationhood took shape in Maldives due to everyone's conversion to Islam. Since then, the Islamic faith has been the binding factor of Maldives' social fabric. Only for about a 15-year-period has Maldives been colonized in its post-Islamic 849 years; Maldives was colonized by the Portuguese for about 15 years followed by the Malabars who occupied here for a mere four months. However, Maldives remained a British protectorate for 78 years until 26 July 1965 which is marked as Maldives' Independence Day. Hence, Maldives has enjoyed 756 years of full independence since its conversion to Islam some 800 years ago. Maldives have had its own national heroes, prominent among them King Ali VI who was killed fighting the Portuguese and Mohamed Thakurufaanu, who liberated Maldives from the Portuguese after a prolonged guerrilla campaign. Maldives became a British protectorate on 16 December 1887. One of the reasons why it was so can be attributed to the conditions prevailing in South Asia at that time; the Indian Subcontinent was colonized by the British until mid 20th century. Maldives became a British protectorate following the efforts by Ibrahim Dhoshimeyna Kilegefaanu and his son Ahmed Dhoshimeyna Kilegefaanu. Maldives' leaders then tried to seek independence depending on the prevailing circumstances of the time. On 24 April 1948, Maldives signed an accord with the British which gave Maldives power to govern its domestic affairs. The British was responsible for managing Maldives' foreign relations and international strategies. This accord was signed by Mohamed Amin and Ibrahim Faamuladheyri Kilegefaanu. After the Republic installed by Amin was ousted -- along with him -- Prime Minister Ibrahim Faamuladheyri Kilegefaanu, under the new monarch Mohamed Fareed, was of the view that it was better for the resource-scarce Maldives to remain under Britain's protective shield. He decided to lease Addu atoll Gan to the British as a military base for a 100 years. However, this motion failed to pass at both the Cabinet and the Parliament. It resulted in the resignation of Ibrahim from the post of Prime Minister on 11 December 1957. The new Prime Minister Ibrahim Nasir, who was sworn in the next day, was against leasing Gan to the British and believed in Maldives' capability to stay as an independent and sovereign state. However, the British had already started setting up communications centers in Gan and the Maamendhoo region of Hithadhoo island in Addu atoll. The region plunged into turmoil and resulted in the secession of Maldives' four southernmost atolls, Addu, Fuah Mulah and Gaafu Alifu and Gaafu Dhaalu atolls to form the "United Suvadiv Republic." This outlawed "republic" lasted from 1959 to 1963. The outcome of these events made Nasir push towards full independence for Maldives. In the meantime, events at home -- including economic troubles -- and in Britain's South Asian colonies conspired against the British, paving the way for all South Asian countries, including Maldives, to achieve full independence. The agreement granting full independence to Maldives was signed in the Sri Lankan capital Colombo. At 10 o'clock on the morning of 26 July 1965, the agreement granting independence to Maldives was signed by Nasir on Maldives' behalf, and by High Commissioner Michael Walker on Britain's behalf. Maldives swiftly became a member of the United Nations on 21 September 1965, and on October 12 the same year, hoisted its flag at the UN headquarters in New York. On 29 March 1976, the British left Gan. The British left Maldives for good.

Yellowfin tuna vessels assigned designated areas to harbor

MALE, Feb 4 (HNS) – Vessels engaged in yellowfin tuna fishing have been assigned designated areas around Male to harbor. The move comes in order to prevent certain dangers posed by activity on the vessels, a public works ministry official said. "Some vessels dispose fish gut on the breakwater and into the lagoon," deputy public works minister KD Ahmed Manik told Haveeru. The southwest harbor area and the area east of Maldives Ports Authority (MPA) from Saturday have been designated for harboring of yellowfin tuna vessels, he said. The vessels can enter the fish market area only to unload their catch; they are not allowed to harbor there under the new regulations.

SAARC scores high marks for failure

by Amal Jayasinghe KATHMANDU, Jan 6 (AFP) - South Asian leaders wrap up a summit in Nepal Sunday after unleashing unprecedented criticism against their regional body, with one head of state warning it would take a Himalayan effort to make the group a success. The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), which began nearly two decades ago with ambitious plans for collectively becoming the world's next economic powerhouse, is today fighting for survival. Leader after leader castigated the regional body on Saturday, when the summit bringing together the group's leaders opened two years behind schedule thanks to bickering between the two big members -- India and Pakistan. Meeting in the Nepalese capital of Kathmandu, the summit saw leaders agree on one thing: as an organisation, SAARC has failed the 1.3 billion people living in the world's poorest region. President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, of the low-lying Indian Ocean atoll nation of Maldives, took the high ground at Kathmandu, saying he had a right to speak "freely and frankly" on SAARC as he had attended all its 11 summits. "I believe that we are going through a traumatic phase in regional co-operation," Gayoom said. "It will take a great deal of energy, persistence and commitment, indeed a Himalayan effort, to restart what has become a stalled process." Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf was even more blunt in his critique. "SAARC's performance so far, in comparison with other regional organisations, has been dismal," Musharraf said. "While SAARC limps along, organisations like the European Union and ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) have galloped ahead." India's prime minister, Atal Behari Vajpayee, lamented that an ambitious poverty alleviation plan proposed 10 years ago in Bangladesh was never implemented in a region where more than 500 million people get only one meal a day. "I believe that we owe it to our people to make another sincere attempt," Vajpayee said. "Let us this time show greater commitment to making our cooperative mechanisms work." Bhutan's prime minister, Lyonpo Khanda Wangchuk, chided the organisation and said the countries should be ashamed the bloc had been slow to act against the trafficking of women and children within the region. "In a region known to be the cradle of ancient civilisations and great religions, it is a cause of deep shame that, within and across our borders, our women and children are traded like commodities," Wangchuk said. He wanted two conventions adopted by the Kathmandu summit Saturday on protecting women and children to quickly be given legal effect in the member states -- Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Nepal's prime minister, Sher Bahadur Deuba, who took over the leadership of SAARC Saturday from Sri Lankan President Chandrika Kumaratunga, said the group still had an important regional role to play. "Our people cherish the ardent desire to see a more coherent, stable and prosperous South Asian community," Deuba said. Bangladeshi Premier Khaleda Zia had a nostalgic attachment to SAARC as it was founded by her late husband president, Ziaur Rahman, but she also said SAARC had failed to implement a single regional project. However, a SAARC diplomat said reports of an early demise of SAARC were premature. "Even to close down SAARC, they will take years to decide, that is if they get round to it at all," he said.

Idealistic Philippine rebellion leaders claim moral victory

by P. Parameswaran MANILA, July 28, (AFP) -- Disgruntled rebel Philippine troops claimed a moral victory Monday despite being forced to return dejected to barracks after their failed military uprising in central Manila. The young, battle-tested and idealistic military officers and enlisted men reluctantly agreed to end their 22-hour siege and be court-martialed after the authorities agreed to consider demands for a probe into allegations of military and government corruption. "We were ready to die but gave up for the sake of our comrades in the military and the interest of the people and country," said 31-year-old navy officer Antonio Trillanes, the self-styled leader of the group. "We have already planted the seeds, we will just have to bite the bullet and roll with the punches. Hopefully, we have inspired others -- that is our significant contribution to the country," said Trillanes. He and his 300-odd men ended their occupation of a key apartment and shopping complex in the Makati financial centre after intense negotiations with government, opposition and military officials. In the end, sources close to the negotiations said, the key figures of the mutiny -- whose average age was 27 years -- were largely influenced by colleagues from their alma matter, the Philippine Military Academy, where they belonged to a class renowned for its brilliance and idealism. Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff General Narciso Abaya said at a late night press conference on Sunday that he would create a special panel to study the complaints raised by the young officers against President Gloria Arroyo's administration and the military. But Trillanes, who had spoken to Arroyo about his grievances before the revolt, sounded dejected in a local television interview after he gave up with his men. "This country has no moral resolve to reform," he said. "These reforms will not come in my lifetime," he said, defeat in his voice. Trillanes had documented irregularities in the Philippine military in a controversial thesis he submitted for a masters degrees at the University of the Philippines last year. Hailing from elite military units, the mutineers identified themselves as "the Magdalo group," a name similar to one used by a band of Filipino revolutionaries who fought Spanish colonial rule in the 19th century. They had accused the military leadership of selling arms to rebels from the country's biggest separatist Muslim group, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), the communist guerilla force the New People's Army and the notorious Abu Sayyaf kidnap-for-ransom group. The mutineers, who colleages say also hold a sterling combat record, said they had come across recovered ammunition from captured rebel camps with markings "DND (Department of National Defence) Arsenal." "These bullets are same ones that are killing our fellow soldiers in the field," complained Captain Gerardo Gambala, another leader of the siege as he wore a red armed band emblazoned with the symbol of the 19th century revolt against Spain on his left sleeve. The mutineers also accused Defence Secretary Angelo Reyes and a military intelligence chief of "masterminding" bombings against civilian targets in the southern Philippines in a bid to declare the MILF as a terrorist group and eventually get more US funding for Arroyo's anti-terror campaign. They also accused the military leadership of planning bombings in Manila in a bid to extend Arroyo's stay in power through martial law. "They will do this through bombings in Metro Manila which they will blame on other groups," said Gambala, citing the recent escape from the police headquarters of self-confessed Indonesian terrorist Fathur Rahman al-Ghozi as "essential to this operation." National Security Adviser Roilo Golez defended the Arroyo administration, which he said had shown "political will" in implementing landmark reforms to weed out graft and boost efficiency.

President Gayoom congratulates Elizabeth II on 50th anniversary of her becoming British Queen

MALE, Feb 6 (HNS) - President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has sent a message of greetings to Queen Elizabeth II on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of her accession to the British throne. In the message, the President conveyed warm greetings and sincere felicitations to the Queen on behalf of the government and people of Maldives and on his own behalf. President Gayoom noted that the momentous event is an occasion for celebration in the United Kingdom and throughout the Commonwealth and for the expression of admiration for one of the most endearing and humane personalities of our time. He added that it is also an opportunity to reflect on how progress has been achieved, freedom advanced, and co-operation developed within the Commonwealth over the past half a century. The President concluded his message by wishing Queen Elizabeth II good health and happiness, as well as peace, progress and prosperity for the people of the United Kingdom and for the entire Commonwealth.

Nationwide awareness programmes scheduled for AIDS day

MALE, Dec 2 (HNS) -- A host of programmes will be held nationwide to mark World AIDS Day, the Department of Public Health (DPH) announced. Among the programmes, DPH is planning to hold a training workshop aimed at resort managers and recruiting agencies. In addition, printed supplements and television and radio programmes were part of the AIDS awareness campaign on Saturday which was marked as World AIDS Day. DPH said that it had also forwarded information packages about AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases to government offices and private organizations. The department is also encouraging people to wear the symbolic red ribbon until Friday as a symbol of solidarity with AIDS victims. Maldives has recorded 11 cases of Maldivian AIDS victims from 1991 to date. Of them, six have died from complications. The surviving five are generally well, DPH said. According to World Health Organization (WHO), some 40 million people throughout the world are victims of the fatal disease for which no cure has been discovered yet.

STO reduces petrol, diesel prices

MALE, March 30 (HNS) -- State Trading Organization (STO), Maldives state-owned trading company, on Friday reduced price of petrol by 12 Laaris (cents), and the price of diesel by 10 Laaris. Starting from Saturday, petrol is now sold at the rate of Rf4.78 per litre, and diesel at the rate of Rf4.50 per litre. STO had earlier raised the prices of diesel, petrol and kerosene on March 6, selling a litre of diesel for Rf4.60 and a litre of petrol for Rf4.90. According to STO, the prices were lowered on Friday because "oil prices in the global market were also lowered." ($=12.85)

MCST seeking additional ISP

Male, October 30 (HNS) – Ministry of Communications, Science and Technology (MCST) has invited proposals from parties for providing Internet service in Maldives. According to the Telecommunications Policy of Maldives, the first communications service that has to be opened to competition is Internet service and MCST has decided to seek an additional party to deliver Internet service. Presently the sole Internet Service Provider (ISP) in Maldives is Dhiraagu, a company in which the government of Maldives and Cable and Wireless of UK hold shares. Dhiraagu introduced Internet services in Maldives in 1996. MCST has set the end of January 2002 as the deadline for submitting the proposals. Telecommunications Policy of Maldives has noted that the Internet charges in Maldives is expensive and the speed is slow. It has been decided in the policy to separate the telephone services from Internet services and establish access nodes to Internet in different parts of Maldives. In addition, it has been decided to introduce a flat rate for billing for Internet access instead of the charge-per-minute billing that exists. It has also been included in the policy that leased lines should be offered at cheaper rates.

President Gayoom congratulates Sri Lanka leaders

MALE, Feb 4 (HNS) – President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has congratulated Sri Lankan President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on the occasion of Sri Lanka's 54th anniversary of independence. In a message, President Gayoom extended greetings on behalf of the government and people of Maldives and on his own behalf to President Chandrika and the government and people of Sri Lanka. Gayoom expressed confidence that the traditional cordial relations of friendship and co-operation that exist between Maldives and Sri Lanka will continue to flourish in years to come. He also felicitated Prime Minister Wickremesinghe on the occasion.

Two parties interested in buying aircraft grounded at Gan airport

MALE, July 3 (HNS) -- Two parties have proposed to buy an aircraft that have been grounded at the Gan domestic airport in Addu Atoll for a long time. Proposals to buy this aircraft were submitted as per a circular released by the Civil Aviation authority in May to sell the aircraft. The due date of this invitation had passed on June 30. Civil Aviation decided to sell the aircraft when the Civil Court ruled on June 23 to sell the aircraft as the owner of the aircraft had not paid the parking charge of the plane. The regional airport said it is too early to give a date in which the process of selling the aircraft will be completed. Authorities also did not reveal details of the prices the interested parties have proposed. The aircraft, which has a capacity of 40 passengers, had been parked at the airport since 28 April 1999. The aircraft which was manufactured in Russia flew to Maldives via Sri Lanka. Bulgarian nationals were in the plane when it illegally arrived in Maldives.

Real women have curves

FEATURE by Ahmed Mauroof Jameel MALE, Feb 1 (HNS) - Staying fit is important for any woman who wants to maintain her figure," said Fathmath Naziya, 23, who attends aerobics classes regularly. Maldives is experiencing a boom in the popularity of exercise, as awareness on the needs and benefits of healthy living steadily grows. Regular exercise has become the 'in thing' as more and more people play sports, jog, swim, and attend aerobics classes and gyms. Maldivian physiques in general are undergoing changes. "Changes are everywhere; more and more women are concerned about their shape," 'Curve' aerobics class proprietor Hinna Khalid told Haveeru. As a result, female figures are now starting to 'take shape' more than before, as everyone now seems to focus on their curves. However, there are misconceptions and problems regarding this. BRITNEY SPEARS: A BAD EXAMPLE FOR MALDIVIAN GIRLS: Exercise should be based upon the person's weight, height, age, build, and should be maintained for lifetime. The trouble lies in that teenage girls start their own diet to become thin, without a doctor's consultation, and without the slightest idea on how it should be done. With the myth of 'dieting equals starving' in mind, they are further influenced by teen idols such as Britney Spears and their "super low," hip-hugging jeans or trousers revealing tummies and highlighting bottoms. The results should be obvious: sometimes, severe health problems arise, including trouble with muscles, and problems owed to bad blood circulation such as loss of quick thinking, reflexes and reaction. "As a result of starving themselves when they need food most to grow, adolescent girls these days have stunted height and development. The most problems are apparent when they enter pregnancy," says former aerobics veteran Shifa Mohamed. "The image that being thin is being healthy is projected by today's fashion world. This means that mature women do aerobics for health while the younger generation strives to be ultra thin." MATURE WOMEN CONCERNED ABOUT ABS; YOUNG WOMEN ABOUT THIGHS AND LEGS: Maldivian women use the word 'beauty' in many contexts. For some, it means having a flat belly, and for them, exercise is the key. "Most women focus on their abdomens, and usually they would be older women. Younger women give more attention to their thighs and calves, usually because they wear tight jeans," said 'Body Fusion' proprietor and instructor, Nasheeda (Nashee) Mohamed. Nashee believes that the proper curves would appear on a person who takes care of her body properly. This means that having a straight posture would lead to a better-looking body. For this purpose, the abdominal muscles, or 'abs' must be strengthened, as well as the back muscles. When these muscles are weak, a person tends to sag. WOMEN'S CURVES ARE DEFINED BY BODY FRAME: Thinning one's body to the extent of scrawniness is not regarded universally as beauty. "Real woman have curves," says Nashee, echoing the popular saying. So how do women get their curves and shape? "By fitting into the body frame," Hinna's says. "By maintaining one's body according to its build and height, and by developing the muscles accordingly," she adds. A woman's curves are defined by her muscles' form. Shifa recommends a combination of weight training, toning, and sculpting exercises to achieve this end. "Everyone has curves. Everyone can develop their existing curves to become better looking," says Hinna.

Discussion in progress to expedite relocation process: Zaki

MALE, June 11 (HNS) -- As more people are requesting for relocation to larger islands that have development resources, discussion is in progress, to accelerate the process, Planning Minister Ibrahim Hussain Zaki told the Atoll Chiefs' Consultative Meeting 7 on Tuesday. He said discussions are being held with the Ministry of Atolls Administration and relevant authorities to find a swift and constructive method that can relocate people. Many Atoll Chiefs said that relocation of people have to be expedited. Speaking at the meeting, Haa Alifu Atoll Chief Ahmed Saavy said many people of Haa Alifu atoll who live in islands that lack development resources want to shift to islands that offer higher prospects of development.

Some patients left behind in hospital by relatives: IGMH

MALE, July 19 (HNS) -- Some of the patients admitted at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Male are not looked after well or in some cases completely neglected by their relatives, the hospital said on Thursday. The Director General of IGMH, Mohamed Ahmed said this problem has been increasing recently. "Sometimes IGMH administration assists patients, who are not taken care of by their families. Such cases are rare. Sometimes one patient has to be taken care of for a month. But still the hospital comes across such cases," he said. Food and medical care to such patients are provided by the Welfare Fund. According to Mohamed, some patients stay at the hospital for a week without getting a decent meal. IGMH is trying to contact the families of people who are left alone at the hospital. The Director General said that sometimes it was very difficult to find the families of such patients. But with the help of police, the hospital is able to find families or relatives of such patients.

Health Ministry to modernise Cardiology Department at IGMH

MALE, June 3 (HNS) -- The Ministry of Health has put the Cardiology Department of Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital for tender in an effort to find an experienced party to modernise the department and provide better health services. The tender notice released by the Health Ministry states that a period of five to 10 years will be given to the selected party to develop the cardiology department and provide related services. It also states that the successful bidder has to upgrade the cardiology department to a level where heart surgery can be performed and provide doctors and other medical staff. The proposals for the tender should include the cathlab equipment and other machineries that are required or an alternative financing mechanism for acquiring the necessary equipment for the hospital, the tender notice said. The last date for submitting the proposals is 31 July.

The truth about cats and folklore

By Hilath Rasheed MALE, 19 Nov 1998 (HNS) - If a black cat crosses your path, rest assured the day would turn ugly. If one of your loved ones sneezes just as you are about to leave on a voyage, you can expect a journey that is far turbulent than that of the Titanic. On the other hand, if a butterfly enters your room through an open window, then expect a brighter horizon for the rest of the day. The insatiable taste to explain the inexplicable, the undying curiosity to find answers for which there is none, has stemmed folklore that draw fuel from the supernatural forces. Maldives has its own set of folklore, both real and fantasy. But those that centre on fantasy outweigh others, for the simple reason that our culture is heavily influenced by mysticism that shrouds much of the beliefs of South Asia. "Dhivehi (Maldivian) folklore centres on the unknown. It has its roots in the Bhuddist culture that was prevalent here until Islam's advent 1,100 years ago," said Habiba Hussain Habib of the National Centre for Linguistic and Historical Research. "When we look at culture of our closest South Asian neighbours, folklore is based on superstition and the supernatural," said Habiba who is presently researching into Maldivian folklore. Folklore started with the defining characteristics of island life; the interactions of nature with human lives. Stories told by word of mouth got blown out of proportions, and by the time it reached the present generation, legends and myths were created; of beings and spirits that are far beyond the comprehension or realism of the human mind. "The legends and myths must have some truth to them. Their roots will have stemmed from certain incidents that actually happened. But the tales got so twisted that by the time they reached us, there are fantasy and magic that have found their way into the stories," 76-year-old historian Mohamed Ibrahim Luthufee said. Luthufee, one of the top researchers into the subject of folklore, has had his own share of experiences concerning the unknown. Once, during the days of the Second World War, a younger Luthufee and a group of young men were sitting on the wall of the cemetery adjoining Thakurufuaanu Mosque in his home island of Addu Atoll Hithadhoo. Suddenly, they were snapped out of idle talk by the crash of planks right behind them. They heard it, but nothing was to be seen. Only the empty silence of the tombstones answered them. The skin crawling crash was what is known to many as Kaddevi Elhun. With Kaddevi follows the sure death of a person who happened to hear it. And however far he or she lived, the dead will be brought for burial at the particular place where the Kaddevi was heard. Sure enough, the next day, Luthufee found a funeral at the Thakurufaanu mosque cemetery. An aunt of his told him that Kaddevi was common in that area, and that within 40 days of a particular Kaddevi, exactly three people would die during that period. Her prediction, ominously, proved true. In Islamic culture, one of the basic principles is the belief of the world of jinn, spiritual beings living parallel along with other creations like angels and humans. Those jinn who strayed and became evil were believed to be responsible for evil happenings and affliction that victimised human beings. Further it is believed that these beings haunt uninhabited places. Hence, cemeteries and places of dense vegetation are believed to be the favourite whereabouts of spirit beings. Maldives has its own version of sylphs but these are not the gentle and feminine type found in Greek folklore. Rather they wantonly seek to harm those unfortunate who accidentally come across them. Kandholhu plants, a kind of wild lily that grows in the islands, are linked to these tree spirits. Once a girl in Laamu atoll Fonadhoo picked a Kandholhu flower during sunset and put it in her hair. (Old folks warn that to pick Kandholhu flowers during sunset is to bring the wrath of the spirits who inhabit

16th FA CUP RESULTS, 20 May 2003: Valencia 6, BGSC 1

Next match: IFC vs United Victory

Construction of 10-storey office complex goes for tender

MALE, June 24 (HNS) -- The construction of a 10-storey office complex at the land where former President Ibrahim Nasir's house Velaanaage was located has been put for international and local tender, the Ministry of Construction and Public Works said. The Ministry said that bid notices will be published in Singapore and Malaysia. The last day for submission of bid documents is 1 October 2003. The construction ministry did not say when the construction work of the building would be contracted to the successful bidder and when the work will commence.

Mr. Maldives competition to start Thursday

MALE, Sept 5 (HNS) - Mr. Maldives competition is to start Thursday, Body Building Federation of Maldives (BBFM) said. On Thursday, a preliminary judging session will be held to choose the finalists who will compete in the final round of the Mr. Maldives competition on Friday. Some 15 Maldivians are competing in the fourth Mr. Maldives competition, judged by a panel from International Federation for Body Builders (IFBB), BBFM's vice chairman Mohamed Haleem told Haveeru.IFBB's vice chairman Paul Chua is to attend the event, Haleem said.Haleem said that over time, body building in Maldives has made great progress and that the improvements made by Maldives in body building will be "quite prominent" this time. The defending Mr. Maldives is Mohamed Afrah Haleem who competed in the heavy weight category last time.

Two-day SAARC summit closes

KATHMANDU, Jan 6 (AFP) - The seven-member South Asian grouping closed a two-day summit here Sunday that was overshadowed by Indian-Pakistani tension, after adopting two conventions on protecting women and children. Nepalese Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba announced the close of the summit, the 11th for the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). The summit ended with a joint declaration that called for social and economic development for the impoverished region and for each country to adopt measures against terrorism. "We are convinced that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations is a challenge to humanity and it constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security," Deuba said in a closing speech. The summit included a dramatic gesture Saturday by Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf, who extended his hand on stage to Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee and said he wanted dialogue with India. Vajpayee shook his hand but responded by warning Pakistan that such gestures should be followed by deeds in the form of a sustained crackdown on Islamic militant groups. The two countries' foreign ministers met informally for about an hour Saturday, sources here said, but India insisted the discussions did not centre on bilateral issues. The 12th summit of SAARC -- which groups Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka -- will be held in Pakistan in 2003. Exact dates are to be decided later. The Kathmandu summit was delayed by two years because of bickering between the bloc's two nuclear-armed giants.

Youth Cup begins

MALE, July 27 (HNS) -- Youth cup in which about 2,000 youths will participate began on Friday. The tournament, which is held each year in conjunction with the Independence Day, commenced when a futsal competition was kicked off. Hundreds of teams in male category and three teams in female category participated in the competition. The total number players of the tournament is 1,220. The Youth Centre said in addition to football, volleyball, basketball, netball, carom, billiard, dart and free throwing will be played during this week. One hundred and fifty teams will participate in this year's youth cup with 454 matches to be played in the tournament. To mark the Independence Day, the Centre has also organised a children's evening that will be held on Sunday. "Various sports items will be played in the children's evening," said an official from the Youth Centre. The closing ceremony of the sports festival will be held on August 1 with a special music show.

Expatriate musicians cannot have permanent jobs: labor ministry

MALE, Jan 26 (HNS) - The labor ministry has announced that no expatriate musicians or bands can be permitted to work in Maldives on a permanent basis. The ministry said that performers for temporary events such as shows and carnivals, and music teachers are not included in this bill. The Ministry did not comment upon the reasons for the basis of this new law. Apparently, foreign musicians are usually associated with tourist resorts. It can be noted that several resorts have sent home their expatriate musicians even before this law was passed.

Rf25 million to be spent on Hulhumale telecommunication project: Dhiraagu

MALE, July 30 (HNS) -- Dhiraagu, the sole telecommunication company in the Maldives, said Rf25 million will be spent on the current Hulhumale telecommunication project. Dhiraagu said all equipment for Hulhumale telecommunication project have been brought to Maldives. Sixty-five percent of the telecommunication complex of Dhiraagu has been completed. Laying the main cable network is underway. The company said all the telecommunication services that are available in Male would also be available in Hulhumale which is being reclaimed in Hulhule lagoon to provide housing for congested Male.

Syrian PM says regional countries should join forces against US: report

ANKARA, July 28 (AFP) - Syrian Prime Minister Mustapha Miro said in remarks published Monday that regional countries such as Turkey, Iran and Syria should strengthen their ties in order to resist US efforts to reshape the Middle East. "The whole world knows about America's policy to establish a new order in the Middle East," Miro told the the mass-circulation Turkish daily Sabah in Damascus on the eve of a visit to Ankara. "Therefore I think Turkey, Syria and Iran as well as other countries need to act more and more together because if we stay alone it becomes easier to do what has been done to Iraq," he was quoted as saying. The United States — as the current rulers of Iraq — are a neighbor "at least as bad as Saddam Hussein," said the Syrian leader, whose country Washington accuses of harboring terrorists and weapons of mass destruction. "Our common wish is that the occupation ends as soon as possible and America leaves the region as soon as possible," he was quoted as saying. Turkey will welcome Miro on Tuesday for talks on boosting bilateral cooperation amid warnings from Washington that Ankara should toe the US line in relations with its southern neighbor. Turkey's relations with both Syria and Iran — often tense in the past — have warmed in the wake of the US-led war in Iraq. The three neighbors share concerns that any move towards self-rule by the Kurds in northern Iraq could spark unrest among their own Kurdish minorities. But the United States has warned Turkey, a long-standing Muslim ally and a NATO partner, that cooperation with Syria and Iran should be limited. "I think anything that Turkey does with Syria or does with Iran should fit into an overall policy with us, of getting those countries to change their bad behavior," US Deputy Secretary of Defense Paul Wolfowitz said in an interview with a Turkish television in May. Miro's talks here will take place in the wake of Turkish Foreign Minister Abdullah Gul's visit to Washington last week, in which the two NATO allies sought to improve their ties, at an all-time low following Ankara's failure to back the war in Iraq and persisting tensions over Kurdish-held northern Iraq.

Private sector will be invited to develop housing in Hulhumale

MALE, Aug 2 (HNS) -- Real estate housing units would be developed in Stage B of the First Phase of Hulhumale development. The Hulhumale Development Unit said that private companies would be contracted as real estate developers for building housing schemes in the newly-reclaimed island. The unit will discuss this with the private sector. In Stage B, there will be 750 housing units that would accommodate 4,326 people. This phase of development would be completed by December 2005. According to Hulhumale Development Unit, Stage A of the First Phase of Hulhumale development would be completed in October and people will start living in the island, reclaimed in the lagoon of Hulhule island, in December. The Hulhumale development project was launched in 1997 to address the acute housing problems facing residents of Male.

Asian tourism body launches region-wide travel index

SINGAPORE, July 13 (AFP) - The Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA) on Friday co-launched a region-wide industry index to provide strategic information to policymakers and executives in the badly-hit sector. In a joint statement with payments giant MasterCard to announce the launch of the MasterIndex of Travel, PATA said the indicator was "specifically tailored to provide valuable information for the strategic planning needs of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries." "Amid the current global environment, the travel industry is changing rapidly," said John Koldowski, managing director of PATA's Strategic Intelligence Centre. "PATA is highly conscious of the challenges that confront the industry. The MasterIndex of Travel will deliver high quality information which will help travel operators make sound business decisions," he said. Covering 12 key regional economies, the index will provide six-month outbound forecasts twice a year in June and December. It will provide information relating to trends in the consumer and travel environments in the 12 markets covered as well as emerging trends, the statement said. The 12 economies included in the index are: Australia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand. Tourism in the Asia-Pacific region has been severely affected by the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) crisis, the impact of which is still being felt despite a successful campaign to contain the viral epidemic. The September 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States and the Bali bombings in October last year also caused a downturn in travel, but SARS was the worst crisis to hit the industry in decades.

Henry and Lucy: The Meeting

A short story by Andhu* It began as an afternoon like so many others. Henry noted a tickling in his nose from what appeared to be the waft of an overly ripe armpit. To imagine this sensation, we must depict a purple-brown tendril of smoke forming a hand at the end, its index finger stroking the man's nasal lining. His brain, unwilling to receive such hideous impulses, sent the horrid sensations via neurons to the pit of the man's belly, as it is oft wont to do. The titanic struggle not to retch began, a colossal battle between good and evil. Just when the little man overcame the greater urge, the source of the pang advanced upon him. Enter the fat wife in all her beauty, performing what seemed to be a grotesque ballet. Bile rising to his throat, the man still could not avert his eyes from the wobbling mass of rippling flesh that was his spouse. In a moment of impulse, he stretched out his foot. The lady, never once having seen the floor since her youth, could not have had a chance against this devious cunning on her husband's part. The shocked man gaped at what he had done as his wife took to the air for the first and last time in her life, her mouth resembling a rather large cave, crashing down on her neck with a resounding crack. The man, getting up too quickly, stumbled over his own foot, and landed heavily. Then there was the sensation of being shoved off an airplane. 'Where am I?' The first question one asks when faced with new surroundings. But no, Henry feared that would be too clich? and therefore asked: "What the hell?" What he was concerned about was not his language, but the dull, bleary view of the present environs, which, for some reason, appeared to have lost all its colour. Yes, he thought to himself, I'm smack dab in the middle of a grey desert, in my boxers and a vest. Suddenly, a brief flash of wisdom bloomed in his brain. Or it could have been the sensation of blisters forming on his feet. He took the example of that certain curious desert lizard and began hopping from one foot to another, though he had two, whereas the lizard had four. It was a distinct advantage in these circumstances. But perhaps he was not so wise, he realized, for it came to him that he was performing a peculiar dance in the sweltering heat with an endless desert around him, and not a drop of water to be seen. The thought of water down his throat inflamed a terrible thirst, and the exercise had begun to severely wear him down, though it had been perhaps no more than three minutes since he had started jogging on the spot. With the sun beating his heat mercilessly down on him, the prospect of no water (or any refreshment stands), and his state of extreme unfitness, Henry collapsed. To a sleep-sodden mind already slow to take in anything, the sudden appearance of a hulking figure – muscled to proportions the eye had trouble adjusting to, with the skin as rough, dry and horribly cracked, never mind it being red – would be a bucket of cold water. As the sharp smell of sulfur pierced his nose, Henry's sanity lurched. That was when he looked at the being's face. With a thin bridge for a horrible nose that was more of a snout, the creature's scarred lips were slightly parted, revealing sharp teeth. Dark, burning orbs of amber stared back at Henry, studying him it seemed. Henry opened his mouth to scream, but his vocal cords did not comply. "Hullo," said the thing. Henry found his voice. "No, no, there's nothing to be gained from that," said the thing sadly. Without any visible effort, the creature picked Henry up by the shoulders and set him on his feet. There were burns on Henry's shoulders where the creature had touched him. Let us forgive Henry, for he could not have noticed the flowery dress at first, as he was in a state of shock. Now he took it in, and it calmed him somehow. If he was mad, then this was not real. "Where the hell am I?" he asked again, forgetting his manners. "Er, well, yes," said th

Terrorism must end in Kashmir or no to SAARC summit: Vajpayee

NEW DELHI, Dec 4 (AFP) - Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee has warned he would not attend a regional South Asian summit in Pakistan next month unless cross-border militancy stops in Kashmir. "I can consider going to the SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) summit early next year provided infiltration and cross-border terrorism stops completely in Kashmir," Vajpayee told a news conference in this northern Indian city. India accuses Pakistan of pushing Islamic guerrillas into the Indian-administered zone of Kashmir, where a Muslim rebellion has left more than 37,500 people dead since 1989. Vajpayee also said that bilateral issues should not be raised up at the regional summit. "Pakistan does not like to talk on any other issue other than Kashmir and Kashmir is not a SAARC issue and so there is no point in discussing Kashmir at the summit," the prime minister said. Vajpayee said India's attendance at the summit also hinged on the SAARC making tangible progress in regional economic cooperation. "Pakistan has not acted on the recommendations in this area agreed upon in previous SAARC meetings," the prime minister said. SAARC has sought to forge two regional trade pacts, the SAARC Preferential Trade Agreement and the SAARC Free Trade Agreement, but India-Pakistan differences have hampered progress. India and Pakistan have been at loggerheads since the partition of the subcontinent in 1947, with a dispute over the Himalayan state of Kashmir sparking two of their three wars since then. India and Pakistan control parts of Kashmir and claim all of the scenic Himalayan region. Both sides until recently had hundreds of thousands of troops on their shared borders, sent there after the December 13 attack on the Indian parliament, which New Delhi blames on Pakistan-based militant groups. The South Asian regional club, which accounts for a third of the world's workforce, groups Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Maldives.

Cup Winners Cup, 1 May - New Radiant 0 - Victory 1 (Ali Haleem)

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Chili supplies dwindle in Male market as Thoddoo farmers turn to cucumber cultivation

MALE, May 15 (HNS) -- Chili supplies in the Male market are dwindling because farmers from Thoddoo island have turned to cucumber cultivation instead, according to suppliers. Thoddoo, in North Ari Atoll and famous for its production of watermelons and a host of other agricultural products, used to supply the capital of 70,000 people with an amount of 25,000 chilies on a daily basis earlier. At the time, combined with chilies from other islands, the price of a chili dropped to less than 50 Laari (cents). However, most farmers in Thoddoo have stopped chili cultivation and the island now delivers only about "two to three bags" of chili to Male daily, officials said. Thoddoo Island Chief Ibrahim Waheed told Haveeru that at any given time, Thoddoo people "preferred to cultivate the product which fetches the highest price in the prevailing markets." "Chili cultivation is a costly occupation. On top of that, it does not fetch us very good prices," he told Haveeru over telephone. "People have now turned to cultivating cucumber instead," he said. However, he said that a few farmers have returned to chili cultivation because prices of chili have risen again in the Male market due to the dwindling supply as a result of most Thoddoo farmers turning towards cucumber cultivation.

NEWSMAKERS: Niuma, Seezan under house arrest?

MALE, Oct 3 (HNS) - It's not gossip after all. Local film stars Ali Seezan and Niuma Mohamed are indeed under house arrest.The two were picked up together from a house by police, according to witnesses. Both stars are married (not to each other). Rumors abound on the morning of last Friday, and much speculation is now floating as to the future of some projects the two stars in. Seezan and Niuma have been the hot topic in entertainment circles since then as producers and directors, who are directly or indirectly affected, pondered: What to do next? EMA studio, where Seezan works, said that they would face "some difficulties" due to the fix Seezan is presently in. Both Seezan and Niuma have roles in a film EMA is producing. "Undoubtedly, we would have problems due to the unavailability of Seezan. But Niuma has completed all the requirements of the film," said Esa Shareef, a stakeholder in EMA. But the first film in which both stars will appear together is director Abdul Fathah's "Aanh… Aharen Ves Loabi Vin" ("Yes, I loved you, too") which is slated for release on October 10.However, Fathah is determined to complete the film against any odds. "I will complete it," he said firmly. "The only problems I'll face is that I won't be able to show on national TV ads that feature Seezan and Niuma. However, I'll compile some ads that feature the other stars in the film."Haveeru has been informed that since last Friday, any TV ads, songs or any scenes for that matter, are prohibited from screening on national television. Fathimath Nahula is another director who will be affected by Niuma's absence; Niuma is one of the stars of her film "Kalaa Aa Nulai" ("Without You") which Nahula is working on.Plus, there are numerous songs which feature Niuma and Seezan whose shooting has been postponed due to the mess they are in. Niuma was recently in the news when her husband forcibly cut her hair "from the roots" after an argument. The husband, who is also accused of beating Niuma occasionally, was convicted for the act.

Waste disposal sites ready for operation

MALE, May 18 (HNS) -- The waste disposal and incineration systems developed in the north and south of the country are ready for use and will become operational very soon, the planning ministry said. The ministry is in the process of selecting parties to do the waste disposal work at the two sites which were set up in Haa Dhaalu atoll Kulhudhuffushi island and Addu atoll Hithadhoo under the regional development plan. "Waste disposal work will be awarded to private parities on contract basis. We are in the process of selecting parties and a decision on this would be reached soon," the planning ministry said in written answers sent to Haveeru. The machinery needed for waste disposal and incineration have been send to Kulhudhuffushi while the machines for Hithadhoo would be sent on 21 May, the planning ministry said.