MALÉ — Amid ongoing discussions regarding media ethics in the Maldives, the Maldives Journalism Association (MJA) has called upon all media outlets and editorial leadership across the country to maintain a strict and transparent separation between sponsored content and independent news and commentary.

The MJA issued this statement at a time when journalists reporting on various projects by Eagle Hills, following a sponsored trip to the UAE, are facing serious online threats directed at them and their families. Consequently, the association has formally lodged a case with the Maldives Police Service, urging a serious investigation into the threats and requesting adequate protection and security for the targeted journalists.

Emphasising that journalists operate in accordance with the editorial policies and guidelines of their respective media houses, the MJA stated that inciting hatred and issuing threats against individual journalists for fulfilling their professional duties is entirely unacceptable. Furthermore, the association reiterated its fundamental obligation to protect editorial independence, citing the Journalists' Code of Ethics to ensure commercial arrangements are clearly labelled to preserve public trust.

In addition to addressing commercial transparency and safety, the MJA reiterated its steadfast commitment to defending the rights and safety of media professionals nationwide, urging the public and relevant stakeholders to refrain from actions that endanger journalists in the line of duty.