The Maldives celebrates International Whale Shark Day at Alif Dhaalu Atoll Dhigurah. During the event, Minister of Climate Change, Environment, and Energy, Thoriq Ibrahim, announced that efforts are in progress to draft a comprehensive plan aimed at ensuring the sustainable maintenance of the whale shark habitat in Alif Alif Atoll. This initiative underscores the importance of protecting these magnificent creatures and their ecosystems, further highlighting the Maldives’ commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable tourism.

Speaking at the ceremony held in Dhigurah, Alif Dhaalu Atoll, to commemorate International Whale Shark Day, Minister Thoriq Ibrahim emphasized the endangered status of whale sharks and highlighted that numerous tourists from around the globe visit the Maldives specifically to witness these magnificent creatures. He pointed out the significant role whale sharks play in the tourism sector, but also noted that certain visitor actions can pose threats to their well-being.

To mitigate these impacts, Minister Thoriq stressed the urgent need to protect the environments that whale sharks inhabit. He revealed that efforts are currently underway to draft a sustainable maintenance plan for whale sharks in the South Ari Marine Protected Area (SAMPa). As part of this initiative, a workshop was conducted today, which included participation from local resorts, guest houses, and island councils situated within the SAMPa area.

During the ceremony, guidelines on appropriate conduct near whale shark habitats were officially presented by Minister of Cities, Local Government, and Public Works, Adam Shareef Umar. The guidelines strictly prohibit individuals from coming within three feet of whale sharks or making physical contact with them. Furthermore, they mandate that divers maintain a minimum distance of 20 meters from the sharks to avoid obstructing their movement.

International Whale Shark Day is observed annually on August 30, 2024, aiming to tackle the challenges that whale sharks face due to environmental changes and human activities while raising public awareness about their conservation.