The Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission has revealed that 57 media outlets applied in the second opportunity opened for financial assistance from the state budget to private media. The commission stated that 41 of these media outlets met the criteria set by the commission.

The work of providing financial assistance to media was first initiated by the Youth Ministry. However, after strong criticism from journalists about the ministry’s decision-making process for distributing financial aid, it was decided to transfer this work to the MMBC. The deadline for media seeking assistance from the MMBC ended on the 28th of this month.

The MMBC also opened an opportunity for applicant media outlets to submit complaints. According to the commission, after reviewing the eight complaints received, complaints from three parties were accepted. The commission stated that in providing financial assistance, consideration is given to the media’s duration, number of employees, business plan, type of content, employees’ educational qualifications, and experience. The commission also announced that the marks received by applicant media can be viewed through the MMBC portal.