The Government has awarded a contract to Malaysia’s Altus Oil and Gas Malaysia Sdn Bhd to establish ice plants capable of producing 30 tonnes of ice a day on 11 islands across the Maldives.

The agreement was signed by State Minister for Fisheries Mohamed Muththalib at a ceremony held at Maagiri Hotel today.

The plants will be established in Dhidhdhoo, Kulhudhuffushi, Komandoo, Rasdhoo, Gaafaru, Mula, Hulhudheli, Villingili, Nilandhoo, Maamendhoo and Rathafandhoo.

The project includes designing and constructing the plants, supplying tube ice production equipment and installing cooling systems that use seawater. The company will also oversee technical work and provide testing, commissioning, warranty and after-sales services.

The Ministry of Fisheries said the project aims to address fishermen’s difficulties in accessing affordable ice. Once completed, the facilities are expected to reduce the time and travel costs fishermen incur to obtain ice.