Central bank, Maldives Monetary Authority (MMA) has brought in a new stock of MVR 20 notes.  
In a statement on Sunday, MMA said the new stock of MVR 20 notes of the Randhiha Faheh series currently in circulation was brought in to address a shortage. This follows a new shipment of MVR 100 notes on February 2nd.
Sun has learned that the sharp increase in demand for these denominations is linked to the recent move by the national bank, Bank of Maldives (BML), to increase ATMs nationwide.
The printing and import of new banknotes when reserves decline is a routine practice among central banks around the world. MMA clarified that the move does not represent an expansion of the money supply, but is simply a standard measure to maintain adequate levels of physical cash in circulation.
Randhiha Faheh series—featuring enhanced security elements and printed on polymer substrate—was introduced on November 1, 2015, to commemorate the Maldives’ 50th Independence Anniversary, and officially entered circulation on January 26, 2016.
The series includes MVR 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000 notes. Centered on the theme “Maldives and the Maldivian people,” the designs highlight the nation’s natural beauty as well as the culture and craftsmanship of its people.
Notably, the MVR 1,000 note, which features a blue whale, has received international recognition for its striking design.