Maldives’ new wedding rules

OFFICIALS in the Maldives have introduced new rules for tourist resorts that conduct marriage ceremonies after an embarrassing ritual during which the celebrant was caught on camera abusing a Swiss couple.

A government statement said hotels that conduct ceremonies in breach of the new rules will be fined $78,000 (€45,000).

The rules state that vows are given under supervision of the resort management and the couple are given a choice of language and translation.

It also prohibits the celebrant and the participants from engaging in any activity “disrespectful or degrading to any religion, Maldivian culture or custom”, the statement said.

If the ceremony is recorded, the rules require the management of the resort to produce a copy for the tourism ministry when required.