In a continued display of strong bilateral cooperation, the Government of Japan has officially handed over eight high-performance vessels—including five speedboats and three rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs) to the Maldives Police Service, significantly boosting the country’s maritime law enforcement and emergency response capabilities across its dispersed island communities.
The handover ceremony took place on Monday and was attended by Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives, H.E. Ishigami Rumiko, Deputy Commissioner of Police Faruhad Fikuree, senior officials from the Maldives Police Service, and representatives of the Government of Japan.
Enhancing Maritime Security Across the Archipelago
Commissioner of Police Ismail Naveen expressed sincere gratitude to Japan for its longstanding and continued support to the Maldives, highlighting the strategic importance of the donation. The vessels are expected to reinforce the operational effectiveness of the maritime police, enhancing their ability to patrol the country’s vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), respond to sea-based emergencies, and safeguard island communities from threats including smuggling, illegal fishing, and piracy.
“These vessels will be operated professionally in the service of the people,” Commissioner Naveen stated, noting that they will play a vital role in increasing the responsiveness and mobility of police units stationed across geographically remote islands. He further emphasized the enduring friendship between Japan and the Maldives and commended Japan’s contributions in multiple areas critical to national resilience and safety.
A Strategic Grant for National Resilience
The vessel donation is part of a broader grant aid project under a bilateral Exchange of Notes signed in May 2022. The initiative, valued at approximately USD 5.1 million, is designed to enhance the capacity of the Maldives Police Service, particularly in the area of maritime security operations. Japan’s assistance aims to support the Maldives in building resilient and sustainable public safety infrastructure, especially vital for a nation where more than 99% of the territory is ocean.
Ambassador Rumiko, speaking at the handover event, affirmed Japan’s commitment to supporting marine safety and law enforcement in the Maldives. She highlighted that the vessels are part of Japan’s broader efforts to promote peace, stability, and rule of law through maritime security cooperation.
“We hope that these patrol vessels will help the Maldives Police Service strengthen day-to-day policing and emergency readiness in the outer atolls, ensuring the safety of all residents and visitors alike,” Ambassador Rumiko said.
Supporting a Safe Destination for Global Travelers
For international tourists visiting the Maldives, a country with over 1,190 coral islands spread across 26 atolls—the assurance of safety and security at sea is essential. The newly donated vessels are not only a valuable asset for national security but also reinforce the Maldives’ position as one of the world’s safest island destinations.
With millions of travelers arriving each year to explore its pristine lagoons, luxury resorts, and vibrant marine biodiversity, maintaining secure waters is crucial to tourism sustainability. Japan’s contribution directly supports the country’s ability to safeguard visitors while also protecting its marine ecosystems and supporting sustainable tourism.
A Longstanding Partnership
Japan and the Maldives have maintained close diplomatic and development ties for decades. Beyond maritime security, Japan has supported the Maldives in a range of sectors, including disaster risk reduction, environmental sustainability, health, and education. This latest donation reflects the shared vision of both nations to enhance security cooperation and foster a stable environment conducive to economic growth and tourism.
As these new vessels prepare to join the operational fleet of the Maldives Police Service, they symbolize not only an upgrade in maritime security but also the enduring partnership between Japan and the Maldives in fostering safety, development, and regional stability in the Indian Ocean.
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