A woman has been appointed as the Deputy Commissioner of the Maldives Customs Service for the first time in its 133-year history.

The appointment was made at a ceremony held at the Customs Building today. Fathimath Dhiyana was presented with her certificate of appointment by Commissioner General of Customs Yusuf Maniu Mohammed.

Dhiyana, who has served Customs for the past 23 years, was previously the Deputy Chief Superintendent of Customs.

“This is an important step taken by the government of President Dr. Muizzu to increase the participation of women in Maldivian development, empower women, and protect their rights,” Customs said.

Besides Dhiyana, there are currently two Deputy Commissioners in Customs. They are Abdullah Waheed and Mahmood Riyaz.