AMFA unveils ‘Himeyn Adu’ series on domestic and gender‑based violence, to be aired on SSTV

AMFA President Dr Ibrahim Hassan (L) and SS Media CEO Mohamed Asif; SSTV will air the awareness program series by AMFA based on domestic and gender-based violence, March 29, 2026. (Sun Photo/Hassan Hafiz)

The Australia-Maldives Friendship Association (AMFA) has officially launched a pioneering 11-episode television series entitled Himeyn Adu, which translates to 'The Silent Voice.' Unveiled at the Salman Mosque in the Maldives, the program represents a major effort to address the high prevalence of domestic and gender-based violence across the nation. By collaborating with local media and international partners, the project seeks to move beyond surface-level discussions to tackle the cultural and social roots of abuse, ultimately aiming to create safer pathways for survivors and foster a more informed public.

The 11-episode series aims to raise awareness and educate the public on gender-based violence.
Data indicates that one in three Maldivian women experience physical or sexual violence, and one in four face abuse from close acquaintances.
The initiative addresses sensitive topics including divorce, youth perceptions, and the role of religious perspectives in safety.
A partnership between AMFA and SSTV will see the series aired starting the second week of April 2026.

The Australia–Maldives Friendship Association (AMFA) has launched a new TV series titled Himeyn Adu, meaning “the silent voice”, aimed at raising awareness about domestic violence and gender‑based violence in the Maldives.

The series was launched on Sunday at a ceremony held at the Conference Hall of Salman Mosque.

Speaking at the event, coordinator Ameena Mohamed Didi highlighted the motivation behind the project, citing national statistics that show one in three Maldivian women aged 15 to 49 experience physical or sexual violence in their lifetimes. She noted that one in four women are abused by someone close to them, and that 26 percent of women believe violence is justified in certain situations.

AMFA President Dr Ibrahim Hassan introduced the organisation, describing it as a civil society group registered in 2024 to strengthen bilateral relations between Australia and the Maldives. He said the series was produced with support from government ministries, civil society organisations, international partners and private individuals, including assistance from the Australian High Commission.

From the launching ceremony of the awareness program series by AMFA based on domestic and gender-based violence, March 29, 2026. (Sun Photo/Hassan Hafiz)

According to AMFA, the main objective of Himeyn Adu is to raise public understanding of domestic and gender‑based violence, explore cultural and social attitudes surrounding the issue, and provide information on prevention and support. The series will also address violence linked to divorce, religious perspectives, youth attitudes and pathways to safety for survivors.

The program will highlight available services for victims and outline relevant policies and support mechanisms.

Dr Hassan said AMFA began a nationwide awareness campaign in July last year in response to the growing prevalence of domestic and gender‑based violence in the Maldives, and that the 11‑episode series is a key outcome of that effort.

SSMedia CEO Mohamed Asif (Mondhu) thanked AMFA for partnering with SSTV to broadcast the series, noting that domestic violence remains a major social concern and that the station is committed to supporting awareness initiatives.

Two ambassadors for Himeyn Adu were also announced at the ceremony: Hawwa Leesh and Hussain Shaadh.

SSMedia will begin airing the series in the second week of April.

By Azhaar Abdul Azeez

Writer