The new Maldivian currency series “Ran dhiha faheh” (the golden five decades) will not have an effect on the money in circulation, said Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA)’s Governor Dr Azeema Adam. Speaking at the “Ran dhiha faheh” launching ceremony at Dharubaaruge on Sunday night, Dr Azeema commented that the launch would raise important questions whether the new series will increase the money in circulation, which in turn may raise inflation. “The answer to that question is the new currency series will not affect the money in circulation nor the inflation rate in any way. The only change will be the new notes replacing the current money in circulation,” said Dr Azeema. The governor illustrated the point that MMA will release one “Ran dhiha faheh” 10 Rufiyaa note only in exchange for one current 10 Rufiyaa note. Similarly, a “Ran dhiha Faheh” 1000 Rufiyaa note will be released only in exchange for two current 500 Rufiyaa notes. “Hence, we can guarantee that the release of “Ran dhiha faheh” will not have any effect on inflation,” said the governor. Dr Azeema revealed they will hold several large scale awareness activities prior to and after “Ran dhiha faheh”’s release into circulation this December to familiarize the public with the new notes, as awareness is the greatest defence against counterfeiters. Commenting on the security of the new series, Dr Azeema said strengthening its security is one of the main factors of a safe payment system. She cited secure modern electronic payment systems as the second factor. “To achieve that, MMA has authorized the two mobile operators in the Maldives to complete the procedures necessary to establish mobile payment systems.” MMA aims to commence the new service by next year, said the first woman governor in the Maldives.