The Maldives has come together in an extraordinary show of solidarity to support Sri Lanka, where Cyclone Ditwah has left a trail of destruction, killing more than 200 people and displacing nearly a million.

In response to the unfolding humanitarian crisis, Maldives Public Service Media (PSM), in collaboration with local media outlets, launched a continuous telethon on Sunday to raise funds for Sri Lanka’s relief efforts. Running for more than 24 hours, the national appeal ignited a wave of generosity across the country.

As of Sunday evening, donations had surpassed MVR 5 million, contributed by individuals, government institutions, private companies, and community organisations. Staff at the Maldives National Disaster Management Authority alone donated over 300,000 Sri Lankan Rupees. The ruling party and several state bodies also made significant contributions, underscoring a unified commitment to supporting a neighbour in crisis.

Scenes emerging from Sri Lanka show widespread devastation: towns and villages submerged, families separated by rising waters and landslides, and major disruptions to essential services including power, telecommunications, and transportation. With the Sri Lankan government declaring a state of emergency and appealing for international aid, the scale of the disaster continues to grow.

The tragedy has deeply moved Maldivians. Once again, the country has demonstrated its instinct to respond with compassion and solidarity. As one of the first nations to mobilise assistance, the Maldives has sent a clear message — that in moments of hardship, Sri Lanka does not stand alone.

The nationwide telethon will continue until Monday at 2 p.m., driven by the hope that every contribution, no matter the size, will help ease the suffering of those struggling to rebuild their lives in the aftermath of the cyclone.