President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has called upon the Senior Officials of Maldives Media Council (MMC) to disseminate verified and accurate news to the public and to work hard on achieving this goal. He made this statement at a ceremony held this afternoon at the President's Office to present the 'Diamond Pen of Journalism' to Mr Abbas Ibrahim who achieved the rank of the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddeen.

Speaking during the event, President Solih shed light on the importance of checking the validity and accuracy of news that is disseminated to the public and urged all journalists to take full responsibility for what they release and to be truthful in fulfilling their duties as journalists. He also stated the importance of giving out factual information, especially in the current situation with the outbreak of COVID-19 in the Maldives. Speaking in this regard, the President also shed light on the work of MMC in checking if factually correct information is being presented to the public and extended his appreciation for their hard work.

Mr Abbas Ibrahim won the 'Diamond Pen of Journalism' back in December 2018 but wasn't able to receive the prize as he was residing out of country at that moment. The President also touched upon Mr Abbas Ibrahim's various services rendered in the field of Journalism. He served for more than 50 years in the field where the entire life of Journalism in Maldives is only 75 years. Moreover, President Solih also stated that Maldivian Media needs the expertise of such journalists even today.

During the ceremony, the President of MMC stressed on the importance of solving current challenges they are facing in carrying out the work of the council.