In a key step towards improving animal welfare in the Maldives, President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu inaugurated a new pet care facility, “Olhu Hiyaa,” in Hulhumale’ Phase 2 today. As part of the government’s 14-week agenda, the center was launched to address long-standing concerns surrounding stray animals in the Malé area. Located on a 5,000-square-foot site, the facility offers a range of essential veterinary services, aiming to reduce both the stray cat population and the impact of urban animal issues.
During the ceremony, President Muizzu underscored the importance of creating the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Welfare, marking the first time in Maldivian history that a ministry is dedicated solely to animal welfare. He acknowledged public concerns about stray animals and reiterated the government’s commitment to providing solutions. The new ministry, he noted, would enhance the nation’s animal care standards and ensure sustainable management of pets and stray animals, aligning with his administration’s vision for a more compassionate and orderly urban environment.
President Muizzu tours the new “Olhu Hiyaa” facility, observing the comprehensive care services now available to address the stray cat population and ensure compassionate treatment.
The services at Olhu Hiyaa include essential veterinary care such as routine check-ups, surgeries, blood and urine testing, and post-operative recovery care. The facility is equipped to support cats undergoing medical treatments, with professional staff trained in anesthesia maintenance and post-surgical care. Additionally, the center provides vaccinations, diagnostic testing, and feeding services, ensuring animals receive comprehensive support tailored to their needs.
Beyond healthcare, the facility is expected to ease public concerns about the stray cat population, which has posed challenges for residents in terms of sanitation and public health. By focusing on both treatment and long-term management of stray animals, Olhu Hiyaa aims to reduce litter-related road pollution and foster a safer, cleaner environment in urban areas. President Muizzu highlighted the compassionate approach of the facility, which seeks to humanely address stray issues without compromising animal welfare.
President Muizzu tours the new “Olhu Hiyaa” facility, observing the comprehensive care services now available to address the stray cat population and ensure compassionate treatment.
This initiative comes as a long-anticipated solution for Malé residents, who have expressed concerns over urban cleanliness and animal welfare for many years. By introducing Olhu Hiyaa, the government fulfills a significant part of its 14-week promise, setting the stage for more structured animal management across the nation. President Muizzu emphasized that such efforts not only improve quality of life for animals but also reflect the administration’s commitment to progressive, humane policies aimed at benefiting both residents and pets alike.
