The Maldives officially launched the 21st Asia Media Summit on Tuesday, bringing together regional media professionals, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to discuss the future of broadcasting in an increasingly digital world. The four-day summit, hosted at Villa Nautica Maldives Resort, is being held under the theme “Maldives 2.0: From Tradition to Tech” and will continue until 14 May.
The event is jointly organized by the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD) and Public Service Media. Senior government officials, media executives, and delegates from across Asia attended the opening ceremony.
The summit was formally inaugurated by Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan, who emphasized the Maldives’ ongoing efforts to modernize national systems while safeguarding cultural identity and heritage.
Addressing participants, Minister Ihusaan said the summit theme reflects a broader regional aspiration to embrace digital transformation without compromising national values and traditions.
He noted that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s administration has launched the “Maldives 2.0” initiative, a nationwide digital transformation programme designed to modernize governance, strengthen public services, and build a more resilient and technologically advanced nation.
According to the minister, the initiative is focused on integrating innovation in ways that suit the Maldives’ unique geography and social structure. He stressed that digitalization should enhance governance and empower communities while preserving the country’s identity rather than replacing traditional values.
Minister Ihusaan also highlighted the government’s emphasis on youth development, stating that investments are being made to equip young Maldivians with digital skills needed to compete in the future economy.
Speaking on challenges facing modern media, the minister warned against the rise of misinformation, disinformation, and declining public trust in the digital era. He said responsible journalism and ethical media practices are now more important than ever and called for stronger, forward-thinking media ecosystems that promote unity instead of division.
Bank of Maldives CEO and Managing Director Mohamed Shareef also addressed the opening ceremony, underscoring the importance of accurate and credible journalism in maintaining economic and financial stability.
Shareef stated that media institutions and financial systems are closely connected, particularly in an age where information spreads rapidly across digital platforms. He noted that public trust in financial institutions relies heavily on the reliability and factual accuracy of information shared with the public.
He further explained that confidence in the banking sector also influences key international relationships, including ties with correspondent banks, investors, and development agencies that support the Maldivian economy.
According to Shareef, timely and verified reporting plays a vital role in protecting public confidence and institutional stability, while misinformation can create uncertainty with consequences extending beyond individual organizations.
While acknowledging the rapid pace of technological advancement, Shareef stressed that professional ethics and factual integrity must remain central to journalism. He described digital transformation as a tool for inclusion, aimed at improving access to services and opportunities regardless of geographic location.
Concluding his remarks, Shareef reaffirmed the Bank of Maldives’ continued support for the country’s media sector through sponsorships, financial assistance, and strategic partnerships.
This year’s summit has drawn over 300 participants, with the majority arriving from overseas. The programme includes eight plenary discussions, a ministerial dialogue on media regulation, and workshops exploring the use of artificial intelligence in storytelling and broadcasting.
Additional activities include the AIBD International Media Awards, cultural showcases, and a coral planting initiative in Kudagiri scheduled for the closing day on 14 May.
