Guinness Record & Coral Conservation: Bank of Maldives backed a mass snorkeling event at Niva Kurumba Maldives, where 314 people entered the water simultaneously to set a new world record, beating the Maldives’ prior 305-person mark and spotlighting reef protection. Hulhumalé Crackdown: Maldives Immigration says seven foreigners were detained after a task force inspection found them working illegally in salons and spas in Hulhumalé. Court Sentences BML Impersonation Scam: The Criminal Court jailed two people over a 2021 fraud where suspects impersonated Bank of Maldives staff and tricked a victim into transferring MVR 75,457.74; sentences were four months and 24 days each, with compensation ordered. National Respect Initiative: Cabinet approved a five-year nationwide “National Respect Day” programme with a nine-member committee to oversee implementation. Aasandha Reform Signals Coverage Changes: President Muizzu announced high-income earners (MVR 65,000+ monthly) will lose full government-funded coverage, with possible co-pay/pre-pay or annual contributions. State-Owned Enterprise Restructure: Fenaka Corporation is set to be dissolved and its utilities moved to STELCO, aiming to cut duplication and improve efficiency. Tourism & Hospitality Business: Food & Hospitality Asia Maldives (FHAM) 2026 opened in Hulhumalé with 100+ exhibitors from 22+ countries and a stronger MICE focus. Payments Policy Update: Muizzu said online transaction difficulties will be addressed via mandatory conversion of 40% of resort dollar earnings through local banks. Robotic Surgery Milestone: ADK Hospital performed the Maldives’ first robotic-assisted surgeries—two robotic-assisted knee replacements—expanding advanced care locally. Sports Business Link: Sony Sports Network secured TV rights for the India-Afghanistan three-match T20I series in New Delhi (Sept 13, 15, 17), with coverage planned for fans across the region including Maldives.