2025 Budget to Include State Funding for Private Media, Says Minister Ibrahim Vaheed

Youth Empowerment, Information, and Arts Minister Ibrahim Waheed (Aswad) has announced that the 2025 state budget will allocate funds for private media outlets. The minister shared this during an appearance on PSM’s Weekly 52 program.

He revealed that two major initiatives are being implemented under the President’s special directives: the establishment of a Media Village and the introduction of state funding for private media. The Cabinet has approved the construction of the Media Village, which will be located in the building currently housing the STO Hotel. According to the minister, the facility will provide ample space and resources for media operations.

Discussions are ongoing with the Ministry of Finance regarding budget allocations, and Minister Waheed confirmed that funds for private media have been included in next year’s budget. "Private media will be funded from the state budget. The rules have been prepared, and we are in discussions with the Finance Ministry. The good news is that the 2025 state budget will provide funding for private media," he said.

The minister expressed hope that the introduction of state funding and the opening of the Media Village would encourage private media outlets to operate responsibly and contribute positively to the Maldives media landscape.