Hulhumalé Media Village to Provide Affordable Workspaces for 34 Local Outlets by June

The government-led development of the Media Village in Hulhumalé Phase 1 is on track for completion by June, providing a critical solution for the Maldives' struggling media sector. Chief Government Spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef confirmed that the facility will offer 34 dedicated spaces for media organizations, with an official opening scheduled for mid-year. Speaking during the "Pressor with the Spoks" series, Hussain Shareef assured journalists that construction is progressing rapidly. He clarified that despite administrative shifts regarding the ministry previously overseeing the project, the timeline remains intact. "The work is nearing completion, but it will be completed by June at the latest," he stated. The Media Village is a strategic initiative of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu's administration, aimed at alleviating the severe space constraints and financial burdens facing local news outlets. In his recent Presidential Address, President Muizzu noted that many media organizations have been forced to rent private office and studio spaces at exorbitant rates, which has drained operational resources and stifled professional growth. The project involves the repurposing of a building originally constructed 17 years ago by the State Trading Organization (STO) as a city hotel. The facility, which was operated by World Business Pvt Ltd since August last year, is being redeveloped and rebranded as the "Manhattan Grand" under a new government vision. Beyond the media hub, the broader development framework for the complex includes the establishment of a youth center, a medical college, and a heritage college. Once operational, the Media Village will offer low-cost rentable offices and studio spaces. The government intends to use the revenue generated from these rentals to further support the development and sustainable growth of the Maldivian media industry.