The Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources has officially opened the opportunity for islands across the Maldives to submit proposals to host the national Fishermen’s Day celebrations, held annually on December 10.
Fishermen’s Day is observed to recognize the vital contributions of Maldivian fishermen and to promote and encourage their efforts within the fishing sector—one of the country’s most historic and economically significant industries.
According to the Ministry, selection of the host island will be based on several key criteria, particularly the island’s fishing status. This includes assessing the number of registered fishermen and fishing vessels operating from the island.
Additional criteria for selection include:
- The island must not have hosted any other national-level celebration in the same year.
- Islands that have hosted Fishermen’s Day previously are only eligible again if at least five years have passed since the last time they hosted.
- Demonstrated community interest and participation in organizing the event.
- Existing infrastructure and development capabilities.
- Accommodation and hospitality capacity for visitors.
- Proposed level of engagement from neighboring islands within the atoll.
- Planned activities and logistics for the event.
Islands interested in submitting a proposal are required to do so via the Government E-Letter Management System (GEMS) addressed to the Ministry of Fisheries and Ocean Resources. The deadline for submission is '12:00 PM on June 19, 2025'.
The Fishermen's Day celebration serves as a national platform to honor the heritage and continuing importance of the fishing profession in the Maldives.