'Project Baukalo’ kicked off to promote more harmonious coexistence with cats

A new initiative titled ‘Project Baukalo’ has been launched to promote more harmonious coexistence between cats and the community.

The Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources described the initiative as a national-level pilot project that will run for one year in collaboration with animal welfare advocates and social organizations.

‘Project Baukalo’ was officially launched during a ceremony held on Sunday attended by Minister of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources Ahmed Shiyam, HDC’s Managing Director Brigadier General (Retired) Ali Zuhair, representatives from veterinary clinics, and Chief Commissioners of the Maldives Girl Guides and Scout Association. The event also included the signing of partnership agreements for the project.

Minister Ahmed Shiyam attended the launching and commitment signing ceremony of Project Baukalo, together with Managing Director of HDC, Brigadier General (Retd) Ali Zuhair, representatives of a number of NGOs, Veterinary Clinics as well as the Chief Commissioners of the Maldives Girl Guides and Scout Associations. Project Baukalo is a one year joint national initiative aimed at strengthening animal welfare while promoting cleaner public spaces and responsible coexistence within communities. The Hulhumalé pilot will focus on the humane management of the stray-cat population in Hulhumalé through various activities such as a mass Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) programme, adoption pathways, responsible feeding and cleanliness, public awareness and community engagement. The initiative brings together government institutions, animal-welfare partners, community organisations and other key stakeholders, with the aim of developing a joint sustainable model for a Safer, Cleaner & More Compassionate Community. @hdcmaldives @psmnewsmv #ProjectBaukalo

— Min of Fisheries, Agriculture and Ocean Resources (@MFAORmv) October 4, 2026

The pilot project, which will commence in Hulhumalé, will involve large-scale trapping, neutering, and release of cats under a "Trap-Neuter-Return" (TNR) program aimed at managing the cat population. The initiative will also provide veterinary care, facilitate pet adoptions, promote responsible feeding and hygiene practices, improve road safety, and raise community awareness.

Speaking at the event, Minister Ahmed Shiyam expressed hope that the initiative would contribute to a significant shift in public attitudes towards cats in the community.

"We hope that through these collaborative efforts, we can change the way people view cats in the Maldives. This involves community mindset, institutions established to provide shelter and care, and our Ministry's veterinary services, which are working to improve the conditions of the 'Olhu Hiyaa' cat shelter," the Minister stated.

Minister Shiyam further said that although the first phase is being implemented in Hulhumalé, the main objective is to develop a model that can eventually be expanded nationwide. The government expects the initiative to provide a humane approach to managing the stray cat population while creating a safer and more welcoming environment for both animals and people.

Animal protection and welfare were identified as government priorities in the President's 2024 Presidential Address. Additionally, the ‘Animal Welfare Bill’ passed by the Parliament was ratified by the President on December 3 last year. The law establishes a national framework governing animal welfare and related responsibilities.

In response to the growing cat population in the Malé area, the current administration established the ‘Olhu Hiyaa’ facility to provide shelter and care for stray cats. According to Ministry statistics, MVR 3.4 million was spent on the ‘Olhu Hiyaa’ facility between April last year and May this year.